Ikpeme assumes interim role as NFF General Secretary

With the departure of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, and members of the Executive Committee on Thursday, there have been some changes in the structure of the leadership of the federation as approved by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme who was the former NFF Deputy General Secretary has been endorsed to manage the NFF Secretariat as interim General Secretary

Dr Ademola Olajire, the former Director of Media and Communications, has also been appointed interim Deputy General Secretary.

Meanwhile, all activities and processes connected to the NFF Elective Congress earlier scheduled for September 27 have been suspended.

The development follows the recent leadership crisis in Nigerian football and the resignation of key NFF officials.

A fresh electoral process will commence following the completion of the anticipated comprehensive reforms, to be undertaken in consultation with world football’s governing body, FIFA, and CAF.

Furthermore, the Chairmen, appointed Directors and Chief Executive Officers of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), Nigeria Women Football League and Nationwide League One have been directed to hand over the administration of their respective leagues to their Chief Operating Officers, who are members of staff of the NFF.

Where the COO are not members of staff of the NFF, the Ag. General Secretary shall deploy a new COO from the Federation.

These interim measures are intended to ensure continuity in the administration of Nigerian Football during the transition and pending conclusion of engagements with FIFA, CAF, Government and stakeholders to design a roadmap towards the comprehensive reforms envisaged for Nigeria football, and the next steps for activation.

These measures are intended to ensure continuity in the administration of Nigerian football during the transition. Further changes and directives will be communicated in due course.