Senate Queries NFF, NSC Over Missed 2026, 2027 World Cup Slots

The Senate Committee on Sports has questioned the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and National Sports Commission (NSC) over the declining performance of Nigeria’s national football teams.

The committee held an emergency meeting on Wednesday, August 19, with NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau to seek explanations for the recent struggles of the national teams.

Committee Chairman Abdul Ningi said the meeting was convened at the instance of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following concerns over the state of sports, particularly football, in the country. He said the committee was particularly concerned about the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ failure to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Ningi also called on the NFF and NSC to resolve their differences and work together, saying the two bodies were currently “wide apart.” He said the committee would continue engaging stakeholders and brief the Senate on the situation when it resumes next month.

He further noted that the Federal Government had provided significant financial support and incentives for sports, including rewards for players and officials, but expressed concern that the investment had not translated into the expected results.