By Gabriel Ameh
The Sporting Integrity Foundation has called on the Nigerian government, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to reconsider Nigeria’s reported support for Gianni Infantino’s re-election as FIFA president.
The group made the call following what it described as revelations in a report by The New York Times concerning Nigeria’s protest over the participation of Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-offs.
Nigeria had protested the player’s eligibility, arguing that his participation breached FIFA rules. According to the Sporting Integrity Foundation, the protest was ultimately dismissed by FIFA on what it described as a technicality.
The organisation said the reported handling of the case raised questions about the independence of FIFA’s disciplinary processes and the possible influence of political relationships within football administration.
The foundation also pointed to the relationship between Infantino and current DR Congo football administrator Constant Omari? Wait, the supplied statement names Mr Mosengo Omba. The foundation alleged that the relationship warranted closer scrutiny.
It further recalled that the former NFF leadership had pledged Nigeria’s support for Infantino’s re-election, arguing that recent developments should prompt the country to review that position.
The Sporting Integrity Foundation said Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup also carries significant financial implications for the country and its football development.
According to the group, Nigeria could have benefited from at least $10 million associated with participation in the tournament, funds it said could have supported football infrastructure and personnel development.
The organisation urged the NSC and other relevant authorities to examine the circumstances surrounding Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign and ensure that future decisions concerning Nigerian football are based on transparency, competence and the national interest.
It also called for competent individuals to be placed in positions of responsibility within Nigerian football and the wider sports sector.
The Sporting Integrity Foundation said its position was aimed at promoting accountability, fairness and integrity in sports administration.
Credit: Sporting Integrity Foundation
Statement signed by: Godwin Dele, Secretary, Sporting Integrity Foundation.
