NFF-FIFA Meeting Ongoing as Purported Seven-Day Ultimatum Dismissed
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has denied receiving any seven-day ultimaum from FIFA over the recent mass resignation of its leadership, as officials of both organisations hold talks in Zurich, Switzerland.
A top source within the NFF told Sportsbeat.ng on Tuesday that no such communication has been received by the federation, contrary to reports suggesting that FIFA had given Nigeria seven days to explain the circumstances surrounding the resignation of former NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and other officials.
“We have not received any such message. What I know is that a meeting is ongoing with FIFA in Zurich as we speak. Nothing has been divulged,” the source told Sportsbeat.ng.
The clarification comes amid reports that FIFA was seeking explanations over the circumstances surrounding the mass resignation at the NFF, particularly concerns about possible external interference in the affairs of the football federation.
The reports had suggested that FIFA could consider sanctions, including the suspension of Nigeria from FIFA and CAF competitions, if satisfactory explanations were not provided within seven days.
However, the NFF has now distanced itself from the reported ultimatum, insisting that no such message has been received.
FIFA-NFF Talks Ongoing in Zurich
The ongoing meeting in Zurich is taking place against the backdrop of significant changes within Nigerian football administration.
Gusau, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the NFF Executive Committee recently resigned as part of a broader process aimed at reforming the administration of football in Nigeria.
The Federal Government has called for comprehensive reforms, while the National Sports Commission has moved to ensure continuity in the administration of the NFF.
The outcome of the meeting with FIFA is expected to provide further clarity on the world governing body’s position on the recent developments.
For now, the NFF maintains that it has not received a seven-day ultimatum from FIFA, while discussions between the two bodies continue in Zurich.
