FIFA has sought clarification from Nigerian football authorities over allegations that government intervention influenced the resignation of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Musa Gusau.
In a letter dated September 1, 2026, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, writing on behalf of the FIFA Council, reportedly asked for an explanation of claims that Gusau was directed by the Presidency to step down.
The world governing body stressed the requirement for national football associations to operate independently and without government or third-party interference.
It has reportedly given Nigerian authorities seven days to clarify the circumstances surrounding Gusau’s departure and provide assurances on the NFF’s autonomy.
FIFA could consider disciplinary action, including suspension from international football, if its concerns are not satisfactorily addressed.
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Gusau resigned on August 27, alongside NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the Executive Committee, after mounting criticism of Nigerian football.
The upheaval followed the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ defeat by South Africa in the 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying play-off, ending Nigeria’s run of appearances at every edition of the women’s tournament since 1991.
The leadership crisis has also clouded preparations for the NFF’s scheduled September 27 elective congress in Lafia.
Nigeria has faced similar FIFA scrutiny before. In 2014, FIFA suspended the country after government action removed elected football officials and installed an administrator. The ban was lifted after the recognised leadership was restored.
In 2018, FIFA again threatened suspension during an NFF leadership dispute before withdrawing the threat after the Amaju Pinnick-led administration regained effective control.
The latest inquiry has renewed questions over the autonomy of Nigerian football, with the government and NFF expected to respond within FIFA’s stipulated timeframe.