Former Super Eagles midfielder, Friday Ekpo has criticized the Nigeria Football Federation for allowing distractions at a crucial stage in Nigeria’s quest for the 2026 World Cup qualification.
Ekpo argued that such financial disputes should have been addressed and resolved well in advance to avoid undermining the team’s focus and morale.
“Not at this point in time such will come up,” Ekpo stated. “They should have been accountable for it before now, put the records straight, and let the national team focus on the World Cup qualifiers.”
The veteran warned that the ongoing row could distract the players.
“I wouldn’t say it’s going to be a major factor, but it will definitely distract the players because they’ll be thinking there’s this kind of money and it’s not being released,” he explained.
“The players might start calling for meetings or discussions, saying the NFF should release certain amounts before they play. That brings the players’ morale down and weighs them mentally.”
Ekpo called for immediate transparency from the NFF in its dealings with football governing bodies FIFA and CAF.
Also read: How NFF’s Failed Promises Triggered Super Eagles Boycott
He stressed that funds allocated for football development must be properly accounted for and directed toward tangible benefits.
“Let the NFF settle their scores with FIFA or CAF—whoever collects the money and however they are spending it on projects or building stadiums,” Ekpo added.
“But they should account for whatever they receive from FIFA. FIFA should also verify how their funds are being utilized. If they ask, ‘What did you buy with our money?’ the NFF should be able to give clear answers.”
The controversy has intensified scrutiny on the NFF’s financial management, with increasing calls for independent audits to ensure accountability.
