In a strong-worded statement, the Civil Society Network for Good Governance (CSNGG) has condemned ongoing efforts to destabilize Nigerian football through the orchestrated removal of Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This comes at a critical moment for Nigerian football as the country faces crucial AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.
The National President of the CSNGG, Barr. Kamal Adefila, described the plot as “a deliberate attempt by faceless individuals to discredit the leadership of Nigerian football and sow discord within the NFF.” According to him, “these actions are detrimental to the progress of Nigerian football, and we will not stand by while opportunists try to hijack the administration of our national sports.”
Adefila noted that “the administration of football in Nigeria under the pragmatic leadership of President Ibrahim Musa Gusau with Dr. Mohammed Sanusi as General Secretary has not only prioritized stability but also introduced reforms that align with international best practices.” He listed several achievements under the current NFF leadership, including the modernization of administrative processes, the promotion of transparency, and significant strides in developing grassroots football and elevating Nigeria’s international presence in the sport.
The Civil Society Network also called on all genuine stakeholders to work together toward preserving stability in Nigerian football. “At this juncture, when Nigeria is preparing to prosecute important AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, unity and collaboration are more important than ever. We urge all stakeholders to channel their energy toward supporting the team and ensuring success in these campaigns,” Adefila emphasized.
The organization further warned those behind the plot to remove Dr. Sanusi to desist or risk being publicly named. “We are aware of the faceless interests driving this ploy, and let it be clear that we will not hesitate to expose them if they continue with their malicious campaign,” Adefila stated.
He also called on Nigerians to disregard the falsehoods being peddled against Dr. Sanusi, stating that “these baseless attacks are nothing more than an attempt to discredit a man who has dedicated years to improving Nigerian football.” Adefila reiterated that while the NFF is not without its challenges, the current leadership under Dr. Sanusi remains capable and committed to addressing these issues and moving Nigerian football forward.
The CSNGG also reminded those seeking to destabilize the NFF that the federation’s congresses are not political battlegrounds. “The NFF congresses are platforms for synthesizing ideas and plans for the development of Nigerian football, not arenas for political manipulation or personal gain,” Adefila cautioned.
As Nigeria prepares for its upcoming football engagements, the CSNGG urged all stakeholders to rally behind the NFF leadership and support efforts to improve the country’s football sector. “We must remain focused on the larger goal—bringing back the glory of Nigerian football, and this cannot be achieved through division and infighting,” Adefila concluded.