Fuludu calls for NFF transparency as Nigeria football crisis grows

Former Nigeria international Edema Fuludu has called for greater transparency and accountability from the Nigeria Football Federation after Nigeria missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Falcons also failed to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the first time that has happened in their history.

Fuludu says the setbacks should prompt a serious review of how Nigerian football is run. He believes weak administration has contributed to the country’s recent difficulties and wants the NFF to concentrate on developing the sport at every level.

His criticism comes as the federation faces growing disagreement with government-backed sports authorities. The dispute centres on who should control Nigerian football, with the NFF’s electoral process and its governance structure among the issues dividing stakeholders.

The National Sports Commission’s possible role has added to the tension. FIFA statutes generally require national football associations to run their affairs independently, making any direct involvement by government authorities a sensitive matter. Fuludu believes the disagreement could become more serious unless the parties reach common ground.

Rather than allowing the administrative dispute to dominate the game, Fuludu wants the focus returned to football development. He is calling for an NFF that can earn public trust, strengthen grassroots structures and improve the national teams.

His position reflects wider criticism from former players and other stakeholders, who are questioning not only the future of individual officials but also the structures and accountability systems behind Nigerian football. For Fuludu, restoring confidence depends on ensuring that administrative decisions are transparent and serve the development of the sport.