Amaju Pinnick Defends NFF Amid Fund Mismanagement Allegations

Former President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has cautioned against spreading reports of alleged financial mismanagement within the federation, saying such claims tarnish Nigeria’s image internationally.

The NFF is under investigation for its handling of funds received from FIFA and CAF, following social media claims that it misappropriated money meant for football development. The body denied the allegations, insisting the funds were allocated for specific projects. However, lawmaker Adedayo Olumuyiwa has called for a proper audit of the funds during a House of Representatives hearing.

Speaking on Arise TV, Pinnick, who led the NFF from 2014 to 2022, refused to comment on how the alleged $25 million received over the last decade was spent. Instead, he urged Nigerians to be cautious with accusations that could harm the country’s reputation.

The General Secretary, his deputy, the technical director, and about 15 to 20 other staff in the NFF are being paid by FIFA and not the government,” he said. “A certain amount of money is dedicated to women’s football... We should stop maligning institutions in Nigeria... It de-markets this country.

He added that Nigeria’s failure to host the Commonwealth Games was partly due to its negative image abroad. “Whenever we want to host any tournament, Nigeria is almost a red flag because we de-market this country by the minute,” he said.

Pinnick described Nigeria as “the sweetest and the best country on this continent” and urged citizens to work with the government rather than spread bitterness and hatred.

Despite his defence, questions over the NFF’s financial transparency remain, with observers awaiting possible official proceedings.