FIFA and CAF have directed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to suspend its ongoing electoral process as the two football governing bodies begin a comprehensive assessment of the crisis surrounding the federation.
In a letter dated September 7, 2026, FIFA informed the NFF that it is working with CAF to assess the legal, governance, administrative and electoral implications of recent developments within Nigerian football.
The intervention follows a series of major developments within the NFF, including the resignation of the NFF President, members of the Executive Committee and the General Secretary. FIFA and CAF also acknowledged receiving communications from other football stakeholders in Nigeria regarding the situation.
FIFA and CAF Ask NFF to Suspend Elections
FIFA and CAF stressed that their assessment is still ongoing and that no conclusions or determinations have been reached regarding the validity of decisions or actions taken by any stakeholder.
However, in order to preserve the status quo while the assessment continues, the two football authorities have requested that the ongoing NFF electoral process be suspended until further notice.
The NFF has also been asked to ensure that no further steps or decisions are taken in connection with the electoral process during this period.
Joint FIFA-CAF Mission Coming to Abuja
One of the major developments announced in the letter is FIFA and CAF’s plan to send a joint assessment mission to Abuja at the earliest possible opportunity.
The delegation is expected to engage several key stakeholders, including:
- Representatives of the NFF administration
- Members of the NFF
- Representatives of the NFF electoral bodies
- Federal Government representatives
- Officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC)
According to FIFA, the mission will gather information and listen to the different stakeholders to help the organisations fully understand the circumstances surrounding the recent developments within the NFF.
What Does This Mean for Nigerian Football?
The suspension places the NFF electoral process on hold and creates uncertainty over the immediate future of the federation’s leadership structure.
Importantly, FIFA and CAF have not announced a final decision or sanction against the NFF. They said that after completing their assessment, they will determine whether recommendations or proposals should be submitted to the appropriate decision-making bodies within FIFA and CAF.
Until then, stakeholders have been urged not to make assumptions about the eventual outcome of the process.
The latest intervention could therefore become a defining moment for Nigerian football administration, with the football community now waiting for the FIFA-CAF mission and the outcome of its assessment.
Key Takeaways
FIFA and CAF: Reviewing the situation within the NFF.
NFF elections: Suspended until further notice.
Joint mission: FIFA and CAF are planning a visit to Abuja.
Final decision: None has been made yet.
Government: Expected to participate in stakeholder meetings through relevant representatives, including the NSC.
