Pinnick Defends NFF Amid Criticism Over FIFA Funds
Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, expressed concern over ongoing demands for greater accountability in the management of funds and projects by the NFF. He believes the continued criticism harms Nigeria’s international reputation.
Controversy Over FIFA Forward 2.0 Programme
The NFF has faced public scrutiny regarding the use of funds from the FIFA Forward 2.0 Programme, specifically for constructing two mini stadiums reportedly valued at $1.2 million each. Despite fans and football enthusiasts spreading allegations of misappropriation on social media, the NFF has firmly denied these claims.
Pinnick’s Response and Defense
Having led the NFF from 2014 to 2022, the period when these grants were allocated, Pinnick has once again defended the organization and Nigerian sports institutions at large:
“We should stop maligning institutions in Nigeria. I’m just appealing because it doesn’t make us look good on the international scene.”
“We just lost our bid to host the Commonwealth Games. I know what somebody told me about it.”
“Whenever we want to host any tournament, Nigeria is almost a red flag because we de-market this country by the minute.”
“If the government is even doing something good, I think we should complement them, work with them and pray for them.”
“We don’t have any other country. Nigeria is the sweetest and the best country on this continent.”
Pinnick emphasized the need to support rather than criticize Nigerian institutions to improve the country’s image in global sports and beyond.
Author’s Summary
Amaju Pinnick urges Nigerians to stop criticizing sports institutions over FIFA fund management, stressing that such negativity damages Nigeria's international standing and chances to host major events.