NFF Defies Presidency and Civil Service Rules in Controversial Re-appointment of General Secretary

In a bold move that has raised eyebrows and sparked controversy, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reportedly defied the orders of the Presidency and flouted civil service rules by re-appointing Mohammed Sanusi as General Secretary for another three-year term.

Despite strong indications that Sanusi's tenure was set to come to an end, the NFF extended his contract from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027, in a decision that has drawn criticism from various quarters.

Sanusi, who has held the position since 2015, has faced allegations of corruption, incompetence, mismanagement, and nepotism during his nine-year tenure. Critics argue that the push for his re-appointment is driven more by personal interests than the welfare of Nigerian football.

The controversy surrounding Sanusi's re-appointment has now become a major test for the newly-established National Sports Commission (NSC), which was tasked with reorganizing the NFF secretariat with new leadership.

The NFF, as a parastatal under the Federal Government of Nigeria, is subject to budgetary allocations and oversight from the government. While the position of General Secretary was traditionally filled through secondment from the Sports Ministry, recent years have seen it become a contract role aimed at attracting top talent.

However, the decision to extend Sanusi's contract beyond the stipulated period raises questions about adherence to the Federal Government Public Service Rules, which limit contract appointments to a maximum of four years and require adherence to principles of federal character.

With concerns over transparency, accountability, and good governance at the forefront, stakeholders are calling for a fresh and purpose-driven approach to leadership within the NFF. The Presidency's directive to reorganize the federation's leadership signals a need for change and a commitment to ensuring that Nigerian football is guided by capable and ethical leadership.

As the controversy unfolds, all eyes are on the NFF and the NSC to uphold the principles of good governance and prioritize the interests of Nigerian football above all else.