President Tinubu Receives Update on FIFA's Delay in Nigeria's 2026 World Cup Petition
National Sports Commission chairman Shehu Dikko has provided President Bola Tinubu with a detailed briefing on the reasons behind the ongoing delay in FIFA's ruling regarding Nigeria's petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo. This petition, which centers on allegations of ineligible players, holds the potential to dramatically alter Nigeria's prospects for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FIFA's Independent Bodies Hold the Key
Following a meeting at the State House in Abuja, Dikko addressed journalists, clarifying that the decision now rests entirely with FIFA's independent judicial bodies, including the Disciplinary Committee and Ethics Committee. He emphasized that no official timeline has been provided by FIFA for when a verdict will be issued, dismissing recent unverified reports circulating online that suggested a decision had already been made.
"Even FIFA, it's not FIFA deciding. There are independent bodies in FIFA, the disciplinary committee, ethics committee, and they won't tell you when they are sitting. When they finish, they will tell the world," Dikko stated, as reported by The Cable. He confirmed that neither the Nigerian nor Congolese football federations have received any official communication regarding the outcome.
Background of Nigeria's Petition Against DR Congo
The Nigeria Football Federation initiated this legal challenge after the Super Eagles were eliminated by DR Congo in a penalty shootout during the final of the African playoffs for the 2026 World Cup. In December 2025, the NFF submitted a formal petition to FIFA, alleging that the Congolese FA fielded players who did not meet eligibility requirements under the country's citizenship laws, as reported by BBC Sports.
DR Congo has disputed these claims, arguing that all players were properly registered. The case has since been referred to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, where it is being reviewed based on regulatory and legal frameworks rather than sporting sentiment. Dikko highlighted the complexity of such matters, noting they involve extensive documentation, nationality laws, and FIFA statutes.
"If it is legal issues, we have a good case. That's why we submitted the case," Dikko remarked, expressing confidence in Nigeria's position.
Potential Implications of FIFA's Ruling
Should FIFA uphold Nigeria's protest, the consequences could be significant. According to ESPN, a favorable ruling might lead to sanctions against DR Congo and potentially reinstate Nigeria into the 2026 World Cup qualification pathway. This would reopen the Super Eagles' chance to compete in the expanded tournament, offering a lifeline after their on-pitch elimination.
However, for now, Nigeria must await an official announcement from FIFA. Officials have stressed that there has been no back-channel communication, and the matter is treated as a national sporting priority, underscored by the presidency's involvement. The stakes are high, with Nigerian fans anxiously anticipating a resolution that could reshape the country's football future.
FIFA's Recent Statement and Context
Amid the waiting period, FIFA released its CAS & Football Annual Report 2025, which did not reference Nigeria's petition filed on December 15, 2025. This report comes as both Nigeria and DR Congo await a crucial ruling following the Super Eagles' dramatic defeat in Rabat last November. The lack of mention in the report has only added to the suspense surrounding the pending decision.
The involvement of high-level officials and the detailed legal arguments presented highlight the seriousness with which Nigeria is pursuing this case, aiming to secure a fair outcome in the quest for World Cup qualification.
