Ibrahim Musa Gusau has resigned as president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), bringing his tenure to an early end amid mounting pressure over the state of Nigerian football.
Gatekeepers News reports that Gusau confirmed his resignation on Thursday at a press conference held at the NFF headquarters in Abuja. He said the decision followed consultations with his family, friends and stakeholders in Nigerian football.
NFF president said his resignation was made in the interest of Nigerian football and to pave the way for a comprehensive reform of the federation. He also said he had informed members of the NFF Executive Committee and advised those willing to follow his decision to resign as well.
Gusau was elected NFF president in September 2022, succeeding Amaju Pinnick. His resignation comes 34 days before the end of his four-year tenure and barely a month before the federation’s scheduled elective congress on September 27.
His administration has faced increasing criticism following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ historic failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The Falcons’ failure ended Nigeria’s record of appearing at every edition of the women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 1991.
NFF has also faced scrutiny over the management of government funds, including a ₦17 billion intervention fund approved to settle outstanding obligations to national-team players and officials. Reports indicate that security agencies have been examining the utilisation of the funds.
NFF said its General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, and members of the Executive Committee also resigned. According to the federation, the mass resignation followed widespread dissatisfaction with recent performances by Nigeria’s national teams.
Gusau said he believed stepping aside would give room for reforms to address the governance and developmental challenges confronting Nigerian football.
