Former Super Falcons head coach Randy Waldrum has launched stunning allegations against the Nigeria Football Federation, claiming they misappropriated $960,000 in FIFA preparation funds meant for the 2023 Women's World Cup.
Shocking Revelation of Missing FIFA Funds
In a viral video that has sparked outrage across Nigeria's sports community, the American tactician revealed that FIFA distributed $960,000 (approximately ₦1.45 billion) to all qualifying nations in October 2022 to support their World Cup preparations. However, Waldrum claims the Nigerian team never saw this substantial amount.
"I have a real close contact here in the US that is very connected with some of the board at FIFA," Waldrum stated. "This person told me that in October, every country was given $960,000 from FIFA to prepare for the World Cup. Where is that money?"
Inadequate Preparation Despite FIFA Support
The former coach detailed how the Super Falcons received subpar preparation despite the available funds. The team's pre-tournament arrangements were described as chaotic and insufficient for world-class competition.
"We went to Japan, we flew in, played the game and went home," Waldrum lamented. "Some of our players didn't arrive until the morning before the game. Five players who were going to start for me arrived the night before the game and travelled 16 hours on the plane."
He emphasized the wasted training opportunities, stating, "We wasted the last five days of that window to train," highlighting how the inadequate preparation potentially compromised the team's performance.
Technical Crew Shortages Raise Questions
Further exposing the federation's shortcomings, Waldrum revealed that despite FIFA allowing up to 22 officials in the technical crew, the Nigerian team traveled with only 11 personnel.
"I don't have an analyst, and I scout," the frustrated coach explained. "The US has a scout in Europe watching teams play in exhibitions. We don't even have scouts going with us to Australia. Everything I have to do is on videos and what I can pick up online."
Growing Calls for Presidential Intervention
The scandal has prompted calls for higher government intervention. Former Nigeria Football Association secretary general Sani Toro has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to address the deteriorating state of Nigerian football.
Toro criticized the NFF's technical committee, describing them as incompetent individuals with zero knowledge of football administration. His comments add weight to Waldrum's allegations and highlight systemic issues within Nigeria's football governance.
Mikel Obi Offers Leadership Solution
Meanwhile, former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has expressed willingness to take up leadership roles within the NFF, but only under specific conditions. The ex-Chelsea midfielder stated he would accept such positions only if the system becomes transparent, accountable, and free from corruption.
Mikel's proposition comes as Nigerian football fans and stakeholders demand comprehensive reforms following these damaging revelations about financial mismanagement at the highest levels of the sport.
The unfolding scandal represents another chapter in Nigeria's ongoing struggle with football administration, raising serious questions about accountability and proper management of resources intended to develop the country's sporting talent.
