Gusau explains why he stepped down as NFF president

Ibrahim Gusau has announced his resignation as President of the Nigeria Football Federation. He said he made this decision because of his love for Nigeria and his dedication to football development.

Gusau shared the news at a press conference in Abuja. His resignation ends his nearly four years in charge of Nigerian football.

His resignation came after many people questioned his continued leadership. Gusau also mentioned that he advised members of the NFF Executive Committee who want to resign along with him.

"I have decided to resign my position as the President of NFF after talking with my family and friends. I have also advised my board members, those who are willing, to resign as well," he said.

However, he could not confirm how many board members had resigned or who they were. He said those members had not yet told him directly about their decisions.

Gusau's resignation happens at a time when there are worries about Nigeria's recent performances in international football. The Super Eagles did not qualify for the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups. The Super Falcons also missed out on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Moreover, Nigeria’s youth teams have not done well. The Golden Eaglets failed to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for three straight editions. Gusau stated he would keep helping Nigerian football through his experience and connections in African football.

He said his knowledge and contacts would always be available to help improve football in Nigeria. "For me, I want to make it clear that, by the grace of God, we will continue to give our contribution. Our experience, connections and relationships within African football will never go in vain. We will do our best to ensure that whenever we are needed, we will contribute to the progress of Nigerian football," he explained.

Gusau also spoke about some achievements during his time as president. He highlighted improvements in coaching education, league management, refereeing, and infrastructure development. He said the NFF held several coaching courses, including the CAF B Licence, CAF C Licence, and Coaching Instructors’ Course.

He added that the CAF A Licence programme is set to start on September 16. Gusau noted that his administration helped stabilize the domestic leagues, which he called a significant challenge the board faced.

Regarding refereeing, he mentioned that the federation took over a tough situation. There were few Nigerian officials at continental and global competitions. He said the NFF introduced young referees into the system and gave them chances for training and growth.

"Today, we are beginning to see the results. At the last Under-17 World Cup and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Nigerian referees were among the officials and even handled some of the semi-final matches," he said.

Gusau is hopeful that continued investment in training and developing young referees will boost Nigeria’s presence at major international tournaments. He also pointed out that poor infrastructure is one of the biggest challenges facing Nigerian football.

According to him, the board focused on developing infrastructure using funds from FIFA’s development programs. "As a board, we sat down and identified infrastructure as one of our greatest needs. We also recognized the need for permanent accommodation and training facilities for our national teams, and we are currently working on that. I believe history will judge us on this, and Nigerians will remember that we played our part in addressing the infrastructure challenge," he said.

Gusau remains committed to supporting efforts to advance Nigerian football whenever needed.