Lagos FA Boss Hails NFF Statute Overhaul, Endorses Gusau For Re-election

Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Hajji Gafar, has endorsed the re-election of Ibrahim Musa Gusau, describing the recent amendment of the Nigeria Football Federation statutes as a “masterstroke” and a defining moment for the game in the country.

At a press briefing in Lagos, Gafar hailed the revision—coming 16 years after the last update—as a landmark achievement that aligns Nigerian football with global best practices and signals the beginning of a new era.

“The outlook is entirely positive,” Gafar said. “The revision of the statutes after 16 years is monumental and unprecedented. It reflects a collective decision by Congress to modernise our framework and bring it in line with international standards.”

The Lagos FA boss was reacting to the outcomes of the NFF Extraordinary General Assembly held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where the amendments were adopted. He described the exercise as a major victory for Nigerian football and expressed confidence that Gusau would be re-elected when elections are held in September.

Gafar emphasised that the new statutes would strengthen inclusivity in decision-making, particularly within domestic football structures. He noted that clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League will now have five representatives with voting rights, while the Nigeria National League will have four delegates, two of whom will vote.

According to him, the expanded representation will encourage transparency, accountability and ultimately attract private investment into the league system.

“It will encourage investors to come into the game because they can see a more inclusive and transparent structure,” he explained.

The Lagos FA chairman further commended the NFF leadership under Gusau for maintaining stability despite the complexities of managing football in a country as vast and passionate as Nigeria.

“Managing football in Nigeria is not an easy task, given the size and expectations of the population,” Gafar noted. “For the current leadership to have sustained stability over the past three and a half years is commendable. In my view, they deserve continuity.

He also highlighted improvements in infrastructure, including FIFA Goal Project facilities in Abuja, as well as what he described as prudent financial management and increased stakeholder participation.

Gafar concluded by reaffirming his backing for Gusau’s re-election, citing consistency, inclusiveness and forward-thinking leadership as key reasons the current administration should be given another mandate.

Gafar also urged the Nationwide League One to transition into a fully professional structure, following the removal of the “amateur” designation.

He pointed to FIFA provisions that allow players aged 15 and above to sign professional contracts under appropriate supervision, describing it as an opportunity to create a more structured pathway for emerging talents.

“This presents a great chance to build a professional environment where young players can develop and thrive,” he said.