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The NFF have denied any wrongdoing regarding funds received from FIFA for football development in Nigeria The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has rejected claims of financial mismanagement over the controversial FIFA Goal Project in Kebbi State, following widespread criticism sparked by images of an unfinished stadium in Benin-Kebbi. NFF President Amaju Pinnick insists the matter has been completely misunderstood, maintaining that every kobo of FIFA’s funding was accounted for and used in line with the organisation’s strict standards. Pinnick defends transparency amid controversy Speaking in an exclusive interview with ARISE NEWS, Pinnick addressed the social media uproar that followed FIFA’s post showcasing the half-built facility. Pay attention: Is Livescorebet the best betting site in Nigeria? He explained that FIFA’s audit process made any form of financial irregularity impossible, emphasizing that the project was executed under the global body’s close supervision. “If FIFA gives you their money, they audit their money, they know A to Z, and they have standards,” he clarified. “The contract was about $1.1 million in 2020, which was less than 400 million naira then — and everything went according to plan.” Pinnick further noted that no additional funds were approved despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing that the NFF had adhered strictly to FIFA’s project framework. “There was no variation, even in spite of COVID,” he said, urging Nigerians to verify facts before making accusations. NFF, lawmakers clarify FIFA’s funding structure The controversy also prompted clarification from Kabiru Amadu, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, who explained that FIFA’s grants are not intended for constructing standard stadiums but rather for football development initiatives. “FIFA will not build or construct a stadium for any nation,” Amadu told Channels TV. “FIFA only has a football development grant. You can choose what you want to do… Mini stadiums like this one that NFF decided to do, or training programmes for coaches or players.” His comments reinforced Pinnick’s stance that the Kebbi facility was never designed to be a major arena but a developmental infrastructure under the Goal Project scheme. Despite lingering criticism, the NFF insists that the project remains transparent, auditable, and aligned with FIFA’s broader mission to grow football across emerging nations.
