NFF Normalisation Committee May Have Until May 31, 2027, To Complete Assignment

A proposed Normalisation Committee for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is expected to conclude its assignment by May 31, 2027, subject to approval by the FIFA Council, according to a report by UK-based Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana.

Obayiuwana, citing a highly reliable source, reported that the proposed tenure of the committee had been presented to the FIFA Council for approval.

If endorsed, the arrangement would establish May 31, 2027, as the deadline for the committee to complete its mandate and pave the way for the restoration of normal football administration in Nigeria.

The report also indicated that Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe supports the proposed arrangement.

However, the proposal remains subject to the FIFA Council’s approval, and there has been no official confirmation that the tenure or the committee’s establishment has been formally approved.

The proposed intervention comes amid the leadership crisis in the NFF following the resignation of former president Ibrahim Gusau, the federation’s general secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, and other board members.

The developments prompted the National Sports Commission (NSC) to support interim administrative arrangements, while discussions continued over the future leadership and governance of Nigerian football.

FIFA and CAF officials have also been involved in consultations with Nigerian football stakeholders over the crisis and possible steps towards restoring stability in the federation.

The proposed Normalisation Committee is expected to provide a framework for addressing the administrative impasse, although its precise composition, powers and terms of reference have yet to be officially confirmed.

Normalisation committees are generally established by FIFA in exceptional circumstances to restore proper administration, ensure compliance with relevant statutes and organise elections where necessary.

If the proposal receives approval, the May 31, 2027, deadline would provide a timeframe for the committee to carry out its assignment.

Until FIFA formally announces its decision, however, the proposed tenure and the committee’s mandate remain unconfirmed.