Fanny Amun Calls for Fundamental NFF Statute Reform to Rescue Nigerian Football

Former member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Ethics Committee, Ambassador Fanny Amun (MON), has called for a fundamental reform of the federation’s statutes, saying greater participation by credible and experienced stakeholders is necessary to reposition Nigerian football.

Amun made the call on Monday in Abuja while briefing journalists after the submission of the former NFF Fact-Finding Committee’s report on Nigeria’s recent poor performances in international football.

The six-member committee, chaired by Amun, was constituted following the Super Falcons’ disappointing campaign at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, which ended with Nigeria failing to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The committee examined several areas affecting Nigerian football, including governance, finance, technical development, grassroots football, player management and league administration.

Its findings identified challenges relating to player release and communication, team preparation, medical and injury management, camp administration, technical coordination and player development.

The committee also recommended greater use of technology, improved data management and age-verification systems, stronger regulations and closer monitoring of Nigeria’s national teams.

It called for deliberate and sustainable development plans for both male and female football, alongside regular training and retraining for technical and administrative personnel.

The committee further advocated improved league structures and better preparation for national teams ahead of major international competitions.

A major concern highlighted in the report was the alleged failure of the NFF Congress to adopt necessary and workable amendments to the federation’s statutes to allow broader participation by stakeholders.

According to Amun, the NFF Congress should comprise credible and experienced personalities who can bring fresh ideas and strengthen accountability within the federation.

She also proposed limiting members to a maximum of two terms in office.

The committee further raised concerns over allegations of undue influence in national team invitations and player selection, financial inducements, unequal remuneration of players and officials, and the prolonged retention of some federation officials in lucrative positions.

Amun stressed that the recommendations would only have an impact if they were translated into concrete reforms backed by genuine political will.

The committee also called on the NFF to thoroughly investigate all allegations raised in the report, strengthen its internal accountability mechanisms and implement reforms capable of restoring confidence in the administration and development of Nigerian football.

Despite its criticisms, the committee commended the Super Falcons for their efforts and urged football stakeholders to put aside differences and focus on rebuilding the system.

It said restoring Nigerian football to a stronger and more competitive position would require collective commitment, institutional reforms and sustained efforts across all levels of the game.