EFCC confirms ongoing probe into 12 Billion Naira NFF Intervention Fund
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that its investigation into the utilisation of the ₦12 billion Federal Government intervention fund allocated to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is still ongoing.
EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, disclosed this on Thursday while responding to questions on the status of the investigation.
“Investigation is ongoing on the matter,” Oyewale said.
The confirmation comes amid reports that both the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) launched separate probes into the ₦12 billion intervention fund approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2024.
The money was reportedly released to settle outstanding salaries, allowances and bonuses owed to players and officials of Nigeria’s various national football teams.
A source familiar with the investigation told Punch that some individuals connected to the management of the funds had been invited by investigators and had given statements.
The source, however, did not reveal the identities of those questioned or disclose whether any arrests had been made.
The investigation comes at a challenging period for the NFF, following the resignation of its president, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, after three years and 11 months in office.
Gusau announced his resignation during a press conference in Abuja, saying he arrived at the decision after consultations with his family and friends.
“I have decided to resign my position as the president of NFF, after consultations with my family and friends,” he said.
He also advised members of the NFF Executive Committee who were willing to do so to step down.
“I have also advised my board members, those who are willing, to resign as well,” Gusau added.
The former NFF president said he could not immediately confirm how many members had accepted his recommendation, explaining that those who wished to resign had yet to formally communicate their decisions to him.
Gusau’s resignation came amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s declining fortunes in international football.
The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups, while the Super Falcons missed out on qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria’s youth football has also suffered setbacks, with the Golden Eaglets failing to qualify for three successive editions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Despite leaving office, Gusau said he would remain committed to contributing to the growth and development of Nigerian football.
“For me, I want to make it clear that, by the grace of God, we will continue to give our contribution,” he said.
“Our experience, connections and relationships within African football will never go in vain. We will do our best to ensure that whenever we are needed, we will contribute to the progress of Nigerian football.”
Join the Savid News channel on WhatsApp:
