The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced sweeping reforms to its governing statutes and electoral framework, setting the stage for its next elective congress on 26 September 2026.
The decisions were taken at an Extraordinary General Assembly held on Monday at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Government House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
Delegates unanimously endorsed revisions to the NFF Statutes (March 2026 Edition), the Electoral Code, and the Standing Orders of the General Assembly.
As part of preparations for the 2026 elections, the Congress ratified the composition of the NFF Electoral Committee and Electoral Appeals Committee.
Both 12-member bodies, drawn from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, are scheduled to be inaugurated on 25 March in Abuja.
Financial governance was another major focus.
The assembly confirmed Ernst & Young as the federation’s independent auditor for a four-year term, following a competitive selection process involving seven audit firms.
The Congress also approved Lafia, Nasarawa State, as the host city for the 2026 elective congress, providing a central location for delegates from across the country to gather.
Delegates passed a vote of confidence in the NFF Executive Committee led by President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, praising the leadership for advancing football development in Nigeria.
The assembly also paid tribute to late football figures, including former NFF Technical Director and ex-Super Eagles coach Adegboye Onigbinde and former national team captain Henry Nwosu, observing a minute of silence in their honour.
In addition, the Congress lauded President Bola Tinubu’s administration for supporting sports development in the country, highlighting financial incentives for national team players and funding for international competitions.
The reforms carry significance beyond Nigeria. As one of Africa’s leading football nations, changes within the NFF often set an administrative benchmark across the continent.
The review of statutes and electoral processes is part of a broader push to strengthen governance, improve accountability, and ensure transparent management of national federations.
The Extraordinary General Assembly signals a decisive step by Nigeria to align its football governance with international standards and strengthen the foundations of its domestic and national team programmes.
