Tinubu orders comprehensive football reform

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive reform of the country's football system in response to repeated failures to qualify for major international tournaments. In a statement signed by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu directed the Chairman of the National Sports Commission to collaborate with the Nigeria Football Federation Secretariat and other relevant football stakeholders for continuity in essential football administration while facilitating a broad reform process.

The reform, which will cover governance, administration, stakeholder representation, development pathways, domestic competitions, and accountability, is urgent and not a routine administrative exercise, according to Tinubu. He stressed that the sport, despite public support and national attention, has struggled due to structural deficits within the system and that Nigeria's exceptional talent and resources need to be matched with stronger institutions and sustained performance.

Tinubu emphasized the need to work with FIFA and CAF while safeguarding Nigeria's obligations within the international football governance framework. The reform process will involve engaging with football stakeholders and Nigerians to build a stronger, more accountable, and successful football system.