The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that prospective members of Nigeria's football federation (NFF) Normalisation Committee are undergoing screening and integrity checks by FIFA. This process comes two weeks after FIFA announced plans to establish the intervention panel to address the leadership crisis within the NFF and restore stability to Nigeria's football administration. The committee will manage the federation's affairs, implement necessary reforms, and organise fresh elections.
FIFA announced the establishment of the Normalisation Committee following consultations with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Nigerian government. The committee's mandate will end upon completion of its responsibilities, but no later than May 31, 2027. Despite this, the absence of an official announcement of its members has fuelled uncertainty over when the committee will be inaugurated and formally assume responsibility for Nigerian football.
Kola Daniel, Special Assistant on Media to NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, confirmed that the names of prospective members had been submitted to FIFA for screening and integrity checks. The process includes background investigations and interviews to determine the suitability of the nominees before FIFA gives its final approval. Daniel attributed the delay to the collaborative nature of the arrangement between FIFA and the Nigerian sports authorities.
According to Daniel, the screening process is ongoing, and interviews are being conducted. He assured that as soon as FIFA is satisfied with the selected individuals, an official announcement will be made. The NSC is working closely with FIFA to ensure the committee's members meet the required standards. This collaborative effort aims to restore confidence in the NFF and address longstanding administrative challenges.
NFF's acting interim General Secretary, Dr Ademola Olajire, also attributed the delay to FIFA and CAF, indicating that the next official announcement rested with the two football governing bodies. When contacted for clarification, Olajire simply said: "It is FIFA and CAF." This has led to growing concerns among Nigerian football stakeholders over the delay in announcing the committee's membership.
Football reform advocate Jalla questioned the suggestion that FIFA could independently identify suitable individuals for the committee, arguing that the world governing body's knowledge of Nigerian football stakeholders was largely shaped by its previous dealings with the country's football administration. Jalla stressed that the priority should be the appointment of individuals with the credibility, experience, and commitment required to reposition Nigerian football.
Despite the delay, Jalla expressed optimism that the committee would have sufficient time to execute its responsibilities before FIFA's May 31, 2027 deadline. The eventual announcement and inauguration of the Normalisation Committee are expected to provide direction for the transition process, particularly as Nigerian football awaits administrative reforms and the organisation of fresh elections.
Key points
- The Normalisation Committee's mandate will end by May 31, 2027.
- FIFA is conducting integrity screening and background checks on prospective members.
- The committee will manage the NFF's affairs, implement reforms, and organise fresh elections.
