The Department of State Services has commenced an investigation into the Nigeria Football Federation over the utilisation of a Federal Government intervention fund released to settle outstanding payments owed to players and national teams.
The probe centres on the use of the multi-billion-naira intervention fund approved by President Bola Tinubu to address outstanding salaries, allowances and bonuses owed to members of Nigeria’s national teams.
A source familiar with the development said the DSS had begun examining documents relating to the disbursement and utilisation of the funds and was seeking explanations from relevant NFF officials.
The investigation comes amid mounting concerns over the management of Nigerian football and the financial administration of the federation.
The source described the DSS review as a routine process aimed at establishing how the funds were spent, stressing that the exercise should not be interpreted as a witch-hunt.
According to the source, officials of the federation would be expected to provide documentary evidence showing how the money was received, disbursed and applied to the purposes for which it was approved.
The latest investigation adds to growing scrutiny of the NFF, which is already facing questions from other government agencies over the management of public funds allocated to Nigerian football.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission have also been reported to be examining the utilisation of the intervention fund.
The financial scrutiny comes at a difficult period for Nigerian football, following a series of disappointing performances by the country’s national teams.
The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons also suffered the historic setback of missing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The setbacks have intensified calls for accountability and reforms within the NFF, with stakeholders questioning the federation’s leadership, administration and management of resources.
The NFF, led by Ibrahim Gusau, has also established a fact-finding committee to investigate the causes of the recent poor performances of the national teams and recommend measures to address the problems confronting Nigerian football.
The committee was given two weeks to investigate the setbacks and submit its report.
The growing financial and administrative scrutiny has further increased pressure on the NFF leadership, with questions also being raised over the federation’s forthcoming electoral process.
The latest DSS probe is therefore likely to place additional focus on the federation’s financial records and the accountability of officials responsible for managing government intervention funds.
However, an investigation does not in itself establish wrongdoing, and the outcome of the DSS review will determine whether any official action is warranted.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
