Tinubu Orders Massive Overhaul of NFF Congress to End Decades of Football Crisis

President Bola Tinubu has given the nod for sweeping reforms within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), targeting its highest decision-making body, the NFF Congress. This directive comes as the federation has been described as being stuck in a perpetual cycle of poor performances, internal crises, endless litigation, and a general lack of trust from stakeholders.

The National Sports Commission has reportedly secured approval from FIFA to establish an Interim Management Committee following the recent resignation of the previous Gusau-led board. This provides a crucial window to reorganise the NFF's foundational structure before any major decisions are made.

The NFF Congress, being the supreme organ, holds the power to elect the president, amend statutes, and approve budgets. Effectively, whoever commands the Congress dictates the direction of Nigerian football. The current structure, heavily reliant on 37 voting bloc of FA Chairmen, has fostered a system where loyalty is prioritised over genuine development, creating what is termed 'delegate democracy'. This system means real stakeholders are often left on the sidelines while 37 chairmen effectively act as kingmakers.

A proposal is being circulated for a new NFF Congress designed for representation, equity, and a focus on development, aiming to reduce political interference and boost expertise. To ensure legitimacy and transparency, all associations and constituencies are expected to hold elections to select their representatives at least 60 days before the Congress convenes.

The proposed new structure dramatically alters the composition of the Congress. The number of FA Chairmen would be reduced from 37 to just 6, with one representative from each of the six geopolitical zones. This shift aims to make football administration more zonal and less about individual parochial interests, while still preserving the FAs' voice.

Coaches, described as the 'engine room' of football who discover and shape talent, are slated to have 6 members, one from each geopolitical zone. Referees, who the proposal notes are often abused and underpaid, would also have 6 representatives, one per zone, to promote professionalism and safeguard the game's integrity.

The media, tasked with reflecting the NFF's successes and failures, will have a significant voice with 12 members – two from each geopolitical zone. Similarly, the Players' Union, representing the 'product' of the game and bearing the biggest risks such as injuries and unpaid wages, would also have 12 representatives, the largest single constituency, with two from each zone.

Club owners and representatives from various leagues, from the NPFL down to grassroots levels, would have 6 members, one from each zone. This gives direct say in policy to those who invest money and time into nurturing talent. Major sponsors, essential for keeping the lights on, are also proposed to have 6 representatives, ensuring accountability for their investments and aligning NFF priorities with commercial growth.

The future pipeline of talent, school sports, would gain 6 representatives, one from each zone. This move acknowledges the critical role of secondary schools and universities as talent pools, a sector currently described as abandoned. Physical Education Teachers and Practitioners would also have 6 representatives, one per zone, recognising their role as first scouts and links between education and elite sport. A minimum qualification of a Master's Degree or Doctorate is suggested for this group.

Inclusion for Persons With Disabilities is also a key aspect, with 6 representatives, one from each zone, reflecting FIFA's growing engagement with amputee and blind football. Football Academy Owners, who are currently doing significant grassroots work, are to be brought in with 6 representatives, one from each zone. Finally, the Armed Forces and Police, known for running disciplined teams and providing security, would contribute 4 members – one each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police.

This proposed overhaul would result in a total of 82 voting members in the reformed NFF Congress, aiming to create a more balanced, expert-driven, and development-focused body, moving away from the current system where 37 individuals hold disproportionate power.