The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled a new set of strategic directives as the nation gears up for an intense period of international football engagements.
The decisions emerged from an Executive Committee meeting held on Wednesday, December 10, at the federation’s Abuja headquarters.
At the forefront of discussions was the Super Eagles’ preparation for the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
The committee tasked the NFF Secretariat with putting together a seamless and fully coordinated preparation plan for the senior men’s team. It also urged the players to shake off the disappointment of missing the World Cup ticket, stressing that the AFCON represents “a fresh stage to redefine their identity and showcase their true qualities.”
Focus later shifted to the Super Falcons, who will chase an 11th continental title at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), also in Morocco, from 17 March to 3 April 2026.
The NFF mandated the Secretariat to aggressively pursue top-tier friendly matches for the women’s national team during the February FIFA international window, insisting that only elite-level opposition can adequately equip the squad for WAFCON and the qualification journey toward the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
The Executive Committee also expressed concern over Nigeria’s diminishing performances at youth level. Following what it described as a comprehensive assessment, the body instructed its Technical and Legal departments to develop updated guidelines for football academies nationwide. The new framework is expected to strengthen grassroots structures and align all developmental pathways with FIFA global standards.
On financial accountability, the federation ratified the ongoing process of selecting a new Independent Auditor. The position became open after PriceWaterhouseCoopers concluded the maximum two-term tenure allowed under NFF regulations.
Members also received updates on the FIFA Forward 3.0 infrastructure project in Abuja. They expressed satisfaction with the construction progress on the NFF–FIFA Players’ Hostel and the accompanying training pitches located opposite the Secretariat. The contractor, they noted, appears comfortably on track to meet the 24-month project deadline.
However, deliberations intensified when the issue of refereeing was raised. The Executive Committee lamented the “deep and persistent decline” in officiating quality across the NPFL, NNL, NWFL and NLO. It warned that stronger disciplinary measures are imminent to address poor performance, unprofessional conduct, and alleged match manipulations.
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Present at the meeting were: NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Yusuf Ahmed, Sharif Rabiu Inuwa, Babagana Kalli, Sunday Dele-Ajayi, Aisha Falode, Ganiyu Majekodunmi, Margaret Icheen, Timothy Heman Magaji, George Aluo and Secretary Mohammed Sanusi.
Those absent but formally excused included: First Vice President Felix Anyansi-Agwu, Second Vice President Gbenga Elegbeleye, Nse Udofot Essien and Silas Agara.
