Ikpeme, Abdulrahaman take charge of NFF, NPFL
Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme and Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman have taken charge of the Nigeria Football Federation Secretariat and the Nigeria Premier Football League respectively, as the National Sports Commission moved to ensure continuity in football administration following the resignation of the federation’s top officials. The National Sports Commission endorsed Ikpeme, until then Deputy General Secretary, to…
Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme and Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman have assumed leadership roles in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) respectively, as part of efforts to maintain stability in football administration following the resignation of the federation's top officials. The National Sports Commission (NSC) endorsed Ikpeme, previously Deputy General Secretary, to serve as interim General Secretary for the NFF, with Dr Ademola Olajire, formerly Director of Media and Communications, taking over as interim Deputy General Secretary.
The appointments came after the resignations of NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, and members of the federation's Executive Committee.
On the same day the new NPFL season began with a match between CAF Confederation Cup representatives, Shooting Stars and newly-promoted Inter Lagos FC, Abdulrahaman was appointed Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL. The new season marked the start of Abdulrahaman's tenure, during which he brings extensive experience from various football leagues to the role.
Ikpeme confirmed that Abdulrahaman's appointment was implemented immediately, following a directive from the NSC for all NFF board members, chief executives, and non-NFF staff Chief Operating Officers to vacate their positions.
The NSC has also suspended all processes related to the NFF Elective Congress, originally scheduled for September 27. Reforms will only commence after comprehensive changes have been made in consultation with FIFA and CAF. The reorganization of football administration follows President Bola Tinubu's directive for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria's football infrastructure.
The goal is to address the country's ongoing struggles in qualifying for major tournaments, by strengthening governance, administration, stakeholder representation, development pathways, domestic competitions, and accountability within the system.
Peter, a PUNCH sports reporter, covers combat sports, special features, and human-interest stories.
Written by urgent.news from Punch's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Ikpeme, Abdulrahaman take charge of NFF, NPFL punchng.com
