A group of 29 CAF instructors in Nigeria has publicly criticized NFF technical director Austin Eguavoen, accusing him of conducting CAF D courses in an unprofessional manner. The instructors claim they have been sidelined from these courses, which Eguavoen has been conducting in several states, including Bayelsa, Edo, Delta, Ogun, and Osun, with only a few individuals, including Dr. Terry Eguaoje and an uncertified person, Fatai Akanji.
The CAF instructors expressed their frustration, stating that Eguavoen's actions have made them redundant despite being qualified to participate in the courses. They argue that the courses could be conducted simultaneously across the country with their involvement. One instructor described Eguavoen's behavior as "very unprofessional," questioning how he could conduct such courses with only a few individuals.
The tension between the instructors and Eguavoen has escalated, prompting the intervention of the Nigeria Football Federation's Director-General, Philip Shuaibu. This development comes as Eguavoen seeks to extend his contract as NFF technical director. The conflict has raised concerns about the impact on Nigerian football.
Meanwhile, the NFF Normalisation Committee, established to reform Nigerian football, has faced delays in its announcement due to some proposed members failing to pass the FIFA integrity test. A top source revealed that several individuals recommended for the committee did not meet the required standards, causing the delay.
The Normalisation Committee is expected to comprise between seven and nine members, with the possibility of two non-Nigerians. Former NFF general secretary and executive committee members are among those vying for the committee's leadership. The committee's mandate is set to conclude by May 31, 2027.
In a separate development, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has assured that the 23rd National Sports Festival will take place as scheduled in Enugu. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of work at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and other venues, stating that funding and equipment have been secured.
The 2026 National Sports Festival is expected to be the highest-sponsored edition in history, with projected sponsorships ranging from ?12bn to ?15bn. President Bola Tinubu is set to declare the festival open on November 28, with approximately 12,000 athletes and officials participating from November 26.
Key points
- Nigerian CAF instructors accuse Austin Eguavoen of unprofessionalism in conducting CAF D courses.
- NFF Normalisation Committee delayed due to proposed members failing FIFA integrity test.
- 2026 National Sports Festival set to take place in Enugu with high sponsorship expectations.
