The Coalition of Arewa Youths has thrown its weight behind the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation under Ibrahim Musa Gusau. In a strong appeal to stakeholders, the group cautioned against turning the upcoming elective congress into a political battlefield, warning that the intense focus on internal power struggles could derail the progress of the sport in the country.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, the group’s spokesperson, Sa’ad Mohammed, addressed the wave of criticism directed at the current administration following recent challenges, such as the Super Eagles missing out on the FIFA World Cup. He argued that blaming administrators for every negative sporting outcome is a form of scapegoating that ignores the complex nature of competitive football. The coalition maintains that while leadership should be held accountable, criticism must remain fair and objective rather than being used as a tool to advance specific political agendas.
Mohammed emphasized that football results are often unpredictable, shaped by a combination of strategy, discipline, and sheer luck on the pitch. He reminded fans that the national teams, including the Super Falcons, have consistently carried the hopes of millions of Nigerians and deserve support even when results do not go their way. He added that the current executive committee, which took office in September 2022, is nearing the end of its tenure, with the next election scheduled for September 27, 2026, in Lafia.
Reflecting on the progress made since the last assembly, the group pointed to the vote of confidence already passed by the NFF Congress earlier this year. The youth coalition argued that instead of engaging in what they termed a trial by media, candidates should focus on presenting their vision and track records. They also addressed regional representation, noting that northern stakeholders have historically supported leaders from other parts of the country and are now simply seeking their own opportunity to contribute to the federation’s growth in an environment of fairness.
The group also took a firm stance against linking the Presidency to the federation’s internal politics. They urged Nigerians to reject unsubstantiated rumors of government interference, pointing out that FIFA statutes strictly require member associations to manage their affairs independently. The coalition stressed that while the current leadership is not perfect and some structural issues still demand urgent attention, constant disruption and leadership changes often prevent necessary reforms from taking root.
Looking ahead to the congress in Nasarawa State, the coalition called for a transparent process that prioritizes the future of the game. They encouraged the electoral committee to ensure that all participants are given a level playing field, shifting the focus away from regional sentiments and personal attacks toward a productive conversation about how to best move Nigerian football forward.
