The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified that funds received from world football governing body FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) are strictly tied to specific projects and not free financial gifts.
In a statement on Friday, the Federation said the clarification became necessary following misinformation circulating on social media suggesting that the NFF “collects” millions of dollars annually from FIFA as unrestricted funds.
“The monies received from FIFA or CAF are tied to specific purposes,” the statement read. “Both FIFA and CAF send auditors to examine the accounts in which these funds are received at the end of every year.”
According to the NFF, FIFA Forward funds and other development grants are allocated for clearly defined programmes and projects, with strict monitoring, auditing, and compliance mechanisms in place.
The Federation cited examples such as the ongoing NFF/FIFA Players’ Hostel and the new training pitches at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, both of which are funded under FIFA Forward projects. “Each stage of the work is verified, assessed, and sanctioned before further disbursements are made to FIFA-approved consultants, who receive payments directly,” it explained.
The NFF also condemned individuals spreading false financial figures online, urging them to understand the realities of running national football teams. “Anyone with knowledge of what it costs to organize a single national team match would not resort to mischief,” the Federation stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, the NFF said it operates under “strict financial protocols consistent with global best practices” and submits its audited accounts—prepared by PriceWaterhouseCoopers—to its Congress at every Annual General Assembly.
Meanwhile, the Federation joined in celebrating the 90th birthday of Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu (Baba Ijebu), Executive Chairman of Premier Lotto Nigeria Limited. NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi and former NFF President Amaju Pinnick presented Sir Adebutu with a portrait, customised tracksuit, and jerseys at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, during a special football match held in his honour.
