The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA), Adam Mouktar Mohammed, has called for a major overhaul of Nigeria’s football administration, insisting that only experienced and competent football administrators should be allowed to lead the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Mohammed said the next NFF Executive Committee must be selected strictly on merit, with candidates expected to demonstrate strong knowledge of football administration, governance, infrastructure development and commercial investment.
Speaking against the backdrop of recent changes within the NFF, the FCT FA chairman said Nigerian football had reached a critical point where experienced technocrats were needed rather than individuals serving as political placeholders.
“The current system requires a comprehensive reset. We need strict screening criteria for candidates looking to lead our national football body,” Mohammed said.
Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in sports management, he argued that prospective NFF leaders should have a proven record of administrative competence, structural planning and commitment to grassroots football and facility development.
Mohammed, who is seeking the influential position of NFF Chairman of Chairmen, also pointed to his work in restructuring the FCT League as part of his experience in football administration.
He urged football congress members and voting delegates to put aside sentiment and focus on competence when choosing the federation’s next leadership team.
NFF Faces Leadership Reset
The call comes after the voluntary resignation of former NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and members of his Executive Committee last week.
The leadership crisis followed growing public dissatisfaction with the performance of Nigeria’s national teams and their failure to qualify for several major international competitions.
The situation was further compounded by the Super Falcons’ failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, ending Nigeria’s record of appearing at every edition of the tournament since its inception in 1991.
Mohammed believes the leadership transition provides an opportunity to rebuild the administration of Nigerian football around competence, accountability and long-term planning.
The 2026 NFF Elective Congress had initially been scheduled for September 27 in Lafia, Nasarawa State, before the recent developments surrounding the federation’s leadership.
As the NFF prepares for a new electoral process, Mohammed’s call is likely to intensify the debate over whether Nigeria’s football administration should prioritise political considerations or proven expertise and results.
