EFCC, ICPC probe N12bn NFF intervention fund

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) are currently probing the utilization of a N12 billion intervention fund provided to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This fund was intended to address unpaid player wages, bonuses, and other obligations related to the national teams.

The NFF disclosed this information in a letter dated August 18, 2026, in response to a Freedom of Information request for financial records and logs pertaining to the fund's utilization. The federation stated that they could not provide the requested documents as the matter is currently under investigation by the EFCC and ICPC. The NFF added that "all documents relating to the request are before" the EFCC and ICPC, but did not specify the nature of the transactions or activities that triggered the probes, nor when or if any officials had been questioned.

This investigation unfolds as there is growing scrutiny over the financing and management of Nigerian football, following the underwhelming performances of the national teams and mounting demands for reforms within the NFF. In January 2024, President Bola Tinubu approved the N12 billion intervention fund to settle outstanding obligations, including 15 months of salaries owed to Super Eagles coaches, player allowances, and payments to the senior men's, women's, and Under-20 teams.

The Senate Committee on Sports has also summoned NFF and National Sports Commission officials for an emergency meeting, expressing concern over Nigeria's disappointing showing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons' failure to qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup.