Four Nigerian football administrators appointed to serve on standing Fifa committees

FOUR Nigerian sports administrators have been appointed to serve on standing committees of the international football federation Fifa in what is a huge endorsement of the activities of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

Topping the list, former NFF president Amaju Pinnick has been appointed as the deputy chairperson of the prestigious Fifa Men's National Teams Competitions Committee. Then, incumbent NFF chairman Ibrahim Gusau has been appointed to the Men's Club Competitions Committee while Abdulhakeem Mustapha joins the Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee, while Ayishat Falode takes a seat on the Fifa media and communications committee.

In a landmark development that further solidifies Nigeria's growing influence in global football governance, these appointments place Nigerian expertise at the heart of Fifa's decision-making structure.  These roles reaffirm the country's contribution to the sport's leadership at the highest level.

Mr Pinnick described the appointments as a reflection of Nigeria's strategic relevance and intellectual capital within the international football community. He expressed particular admiration for Ms Falode, noting her trailblazing achievements in sports journalism, women's football administration and media leadership.

"I am deeply honoured by my continued service within Fifa and humbled to work alongside Robert Harrison, chair of the men's national teams competitions committee. I wholeheartedly congratulate President Gusau, Abdulhakeem Mustapha and Aisha Falode on their well-deserved appointments.

"Together, we represent a new era of professionalism, integrity, and innovation for Nigerian football on the world stage. To President Gusau, your steady and unifying leadership continues to uplift Nigerian football.

"Abdulhakeem Mustapha, your integrity and intellect will strengthen Fifa's stand against discrimination and injustice in the sport. Aisha Falode, your evolution from journalist to global football executive inspires countless women across Africa, I am proud to serve alongside you all as we advance Nigeria's legacy within Fifa," Mr Pinnick added.

Ms Falode's appointment is particularly historic, as she continues to break barriers for women in African football administration. A former chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League, she holds the distinction of being the first female member of the Confederation of African Football's Media and Communications Committee.

Her trailblazing record, coupled with her tireless championing of visibility, professionalism, and equity in the sport, cements her place among Africa's foremost voices in football governance. Ms Falode's inclusion on Fifa's media and communications committee is no doubt a momentous step.

This quartet of appointments marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, placing the nation at the heart of Fifa's evolving global strategy in competitions, club affairs, media governance, and anti-discrimination efforts. Their collective expertise promises to amplify Nigeria's contribution to football's global growth across both men's and women's structures.