Ibrahim Gusau, president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has stepped down from his role only a few weeks before the federation’s elections.
Gusau shared his decision at a press conference at the NFF headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. He also said he had urged members of the executive board to resign.
“I can confirm to you that I have decided to resign from my position as NFF President. I also advised my board members to follow me and also resign,” Gusau said.
Gusau’s resignation comes as the NFF faces increased scrutiny over how it managed an £8.5 million ($11 million) intervention fund approved by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in 2024.
The funds were reportedly meant to help pay outstanding salaries and bonuses owed to Nigeria’s national teams.
Gusau’s resignation comes after a difficult time for Nigerian football, as both the men’s and women’s senior national teams did not qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Falcons’ absence was especially notable, as this is the first time Nigeria has missed the Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria had played in every Women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 1991. However, a tough qualifying campaign meant the Super Falcons missed automatic qualification and were later eliminated in the playoffs.
Gusau became NFF president at the federation’s 78th Elective Congress in September 2022. His resignation comes just before his term was set to end and may affect the upcoming elections.
The NFF elections are set for September 27 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Gusau explained that he felt it was time to step aside and let other Nigerians help develop football in the country.
He defended his tenure as president, saying he left Nigerian football stronger than when he started, even though neither senior national team qualified for their World Cups.
Gusau said he had asked his board members to resign with him, but as of his announcement, none had.
The NFF has not yet announced who will serve as interim leader as the federation prepares for elections next month.
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