FIFA revokes suspension on Nigeria's football association

Nigeria's Football Federation Lifts Ban After Government Interference Ceases

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has had its ban lifted by FIFA, following the cessation of government interference in the organisation's affairs. The suspension, which was imposed last Wednesday, prevented Nigeria's national and club teams from participating in any regional, continental, or international competitions.

The suspension was a direct result of the Nigerian government disbanding the NFF and placing a sole administrator in charge. This move prompted FIFA to act, and they demanded the reinstatement of the NFF's executive committee following the arrest of its president, Aminu Maigari.

The court proceedings preventing the president of the NFF, the NFF Executive Committee members, and the NFF Congress from running the affairs of Nigerian football have been withdrawn. The statutory order has been reinstated at the NFF and the legitimate bodies reinstalled. All rights of the NFF as a FIFA member, as defined in article 12 of the FIFA Statutes, are reinstated.

The government's removal of Maigari and his management staff also contributed to the suspension. The new President of the NFF after the lifting of the FIFA suspension is Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau.

Nigeria's World Cup ended in turbulent fashion, with players boycotting a training session due to a reported bonus row with the NFF. Despite the challenging end to the World Cup, the lifting of the ban marks a fresh start for Nigerian football.

Coach Stephen Keshi resigned from his position after the World Cup, bringing his time in charge to an end after nearly three years. With the ban lifted, the NFF can now focus on rebuilding and preparing for future competitions. The sanction, which prohibited the NFF and its members from participating in any FIFA or Confederation of African Football (CAF) programs or courses, is now a thing of the past.

As the dust settles, the NFF can look forward to a brighter future, free from government interference and with a renewed focus on football. The lifting of the ban is a significant step towards restoring the reputation of Nigerian football and ensuring its continued success on the international stage.