The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme to oversee its secretariat as interim General Secretary, following the resignation of key federation officials, including NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau and General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi.
Leadership Transition and New Appointments
Dr Ademola Olajire, previously the NFF’s Director of Media and Communications, has been moved into the role of interim Deputy General Secretary. These changes come amid a leadership vacuum created by the departure of the federation's top executives.
The appointments are effective immediately, according to a statement from the federation. The reshuffle is part of a broader effort to stabilize the NFF secretariat during a period of significant administrative overhaul.
Electoral Congress Suspended for Reforms
The National Sports Commission has suspended all processes related to the NFF Elective Congress previously scheduled for September 27. The suspension is intended to allow for comprehensive reforms to be developed in consultation with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
A new electoral timeline will be established once these reforms are finalized. The decision marks a pause in the electoral process, which was expected to produce new leadership for the federation.
League Administration Handed to COOs
Administrators across the national leagues, including the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), and the Nationwide League One (NLO), have been instructed to hand over league management to their respective Chief Operating Officers.
This move is designed to maintain operational continuity during the transition period. The instruction ensures that league activities continue without disruption while the federation undergoes administrative reforms.
The interim leadership, led by Dr Ikpeme, is expected to oversee the day-to-day operations of the NFF secretariat until a permanent structure is put in place. The suspension of the elective congress and the transfer of league management duties are part of a coordinated effort to ensure stability and compliance with international football governance standards.
