Mustapha Habeeb
NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigerian football, ensuring the sport continues to progress. Celebrating his second year in office, Gusau highlighted significant achievements under his administration since his election in 2022.
One major success is the stability within Nigerian football, contributing to improved performances by both the men’s and women’s national teams internationally. The Super Eagles narrowly missed the 2024 AFCON title in Côte d’Ivoire. Gusau noted, “We have seen remarkable progress in women’s football, particularly with the Super Falcons reaching the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup without a single defeat in regulation time.”
“This is a reflection of the enhanced preparation and support from our administration. The Super Falcons performed admirably and were among the top 12 teams at the 2024 Olympics, showcasing their strength. Our investment in their preparation was key to this success.” Nigeria’s junior women’s teams, the Falconets and the Flamingos, dominate continentally and rank among the best globally.
Gusau emphasized promoting women’s football through the revitalized Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL), increasing visibility and success nationwide. He also highlighted efforts ensuring credible seasons for all Nigerian leagues, including NPFL, NNL, Nationwide League, and Nigerian Women’s League. “We are collaborating with stakeholders to improve the game. Our strong relationships with FIFA and CAF secured additional technical support,” he said.
Gusau reiterated his commitment to transparency, essential for corporate sponsorships and addressing funding challenges. He introduced performance-based bonuses, motivating higher performance levels. Looking ahead, Gusau aims to ensure Nigeria qualifies for major tournaments and brings home laurels. “Our goal is clear: we want to see Nigeria’s flag flying high in every competition,” he concluded.