House of Reps Launch Probe into NFF Over $25 Million FIFA and CAF Grants

The Nigerian House of Representatives has announced a formal investigation into the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) over alleged mismanagement of $25 million received from FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) between 2015 and 2025.

The decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance on Tuesday, co-sponsored by Representatives Adedayo Adesola (Lagos State) and Felix Nwaeke (Rivers State).

Adesola accused the NFF of failing to invest millions in development grants properly, linking the mismanagement to Nigeria’s declining football performance. He highlighted that FIFA had previously queried the NFF in 2016 over the handling of a $1.1 million grant, with $802,000 reportedly unaccounted for. An independent audit was ordered by then-Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung.

Past investigations by the EFCC and ICPC into NFF officials for financial mismanagement and sponsorship fraud were also referenced. Adesola specifically cited $1.2 million allocated for the construction of Birnin Kebbi Stadium, claiming the facility is substandard and does not reflect the funds reportedly spent.

“With Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers approaching, decisive action must be taken against the continued misuse of football funds,” he stated.

Speaker Tajudeen Abbas led the House in unanimously resolving to establish a special investigative committee to audit all NFF finances from 2015 to date. The NFF leadership has been directed to appear before the committee with complete records of all grants received and expenditures made during the review period.

The probe underscores growing calls for transparency and accountability in Nigerian football, particularly as the national teams prepare for upcoming continental and international competitions.