NFF Unveils Electoral Guidelines for 2026 Executive Committee Elections

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has released the guidelines and regulations for its 2026 elections, setting the stage for the emergence of a new Executive Committee that will oversee the administration of Nigerian football for the 2026–2030 term.

The electoral framework follows the Extraordinary General Assembly held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, in March 2026, where delegates approved amendments to the federation's Statutes, Electoral Code and Standing Orders of the General Assembly.

According to the NFF, the revised framework is designed to enhance transparency, accountability and good governance while aligning the electoral process with internationally accepted standards and the governance principles promoted by FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Under the updated Electoral Code, a 12-member electoral structure has been established, with representatives drawn from Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. The members have been divided into two independent bodies—the Electoral Committee and the Electoral Appeals Committee.

The Electoral Committee will oversee the organisation and conduct of the elections, while the Electoral Appeals Committee will be responsible for handling complaints, petitions and appeals arising from the process.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Barrister Matthew Burkala, will serve as Chairman of the Electoral Committee.

The zonal representatives include:

• North Central: Emmanuel Dada Obafemi
• North East: Alhaji Babagoni Grema and Barrister Benjamin Sak
• North West: Bature Musa and Professor Abdulmalik Awwal
• South East: Hon. Justice C. J. Aneke and Arinze Azubuike Anughere, Esq.
• South West: Hon. (Dr.) Akogun Olugbenga Omole and Abayomi Akin Omoyimi, Esq.
• South South: Ayibaye Peter Great Temedie, Esq., and Ayi Ekpo Ukpayam

The two committees have already been inaugurated ahead of the commencement of the election timetable.

The reforms have been welcomed by stakeholders, with National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko describing the updated electoral framework as a necessary step toward strengthening football governance in Nigeria. He noted that the previous code, introduced more than a decade ago, required modernization to reflect current administrative standards.

The publication of the guidelines is expected to provide greater certainty for prospective candidates, member associations and other stakeholders as preparations continue for the federation's elective congress.