The Nigeria Football Federation has approved a proposed budget of N17.6 billion for 2025, as the federation prepares for a busy year ahead.
This was one of the key resolutions passed during the Annual General Assembly, held in Asaba, where major stakeholders in Nigerian football gathered.
In a communiqué released after the meeting, the congress expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the Super Eagles qualification for both the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While the Super Eagles currently sit at the top of their AFCON qualifying group with four points from two matches, their World Cup qualification campaign presents a stark contrast.
The team is struggling, sitting in 5th place with just three points from four matches, putting their World Cup hopes in jeopardy.
The congress also recognized the achievements of Nigeria’s national teams. The Super Eagles were praised for securing a silver medal at the 2023 AFCON, while the Super Falcons were lauded for their return to the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament after a 16-year absence.
In a show of unity, the assembly endorsed Amaju Pinnick’s bid to retain his seat on the FIFA Council, underscoring the importance of his continued representation of Nigerian interests on the global stage.
On the domestic front, the assembly emphasized the need for a stronger focus on grassroots football development, highlighting the crucial role of talent discovery and nurturing across the nation. This initiative aligns with FIFA’s broader vision for global football growth.
The assembly also called on state governments to improve football infrastructure, noting that quality facilities are essential for the growth and development of the sport at all levels.
In addition to these key decisions, the NFF’s financial statements for 2023 were approved, and PricewaterhouseCoopers was reappointed as the federation’s external auditors for another year.
Nigerian Players pose for photos before the game against Japan. (Photo by ROMAIN PERROCHEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
Although the Super Eagles and Super Falcons are currently under the guidance of interim coaches, the NFF Executive Committee, led by Ibrahim Musa Gusau, received a unanimous vote of confidence from the assembly.
This endorsement signals the assembly’s belief in the committee’s ability to steer Nigerian football through its current challenges.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru celebrates with his Nigerian teammates after he scored against South Africa. Photo | NG_SuperEagles
However, with a budget of N17.6 billion, the pressing question remains: Will the NFF’s financial plan be enough to address the challenges and propel Nigerian football forward?
