Tinubu Directs Comprehensive Reform of Nigerian Football to Address Structural Weaknesses

President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football, citing the need to fix structural problems that have led to repeated failures to qualify for major tournaments.

The directive was announced on Thursday in a statement shared on X by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

According to the President, the reform should strengthen governance, administration, stakeholder representation, player development, domestic competitions and accountability across Nigerian football.

“Football is Nigeria’s most popular sport. It receives the most public support, investment and national attention,” Tinubu said. “Yet it continues to struggle largely because of structural deficits within the system.”

He noted that while other sports have recorded progress since the National Sports Commission was re-established, football has not made the same gains.

The President said it is important for Nigerian football to match the country’s talent, passion and resources with stronger institutions and better performance.

To begin the process, Tinubu directed the Chairman of the National Sports Commission to work with the NFF secretariat and other relevant stakeholders. Their role will be to ensure continuity in football administration and to lead a broad, consultative reform process.

The President also said the process must include engagement with FIFA and CAF to ensure Nigeria meets its obligations under international football rules.

He called on football stakeholders and Nigerians to support the reform effort.

“We must work together to build a stronger, more accountable and more successful football system,” Tinubu said.

The announcement comes amid public concern over the Super Eagles and other national teams missing out on several regional, continental and world tournaments in recent years.

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