Ibrahim Gusau explains decision to resign as Nigeria FA president

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau has explained the reasons behind his resignation, bringing his four-year tenure to an end amid growing pressure surrounding Nigerian football.

Gusau announced his resignation during a world press conference at the Nigeria FA headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, August 27, 2026, following weeks of reports that he and several members of the federation’s Executive Committee were facing mounting pressure to step down.

According to him, his decision followed extensive consultations with football stakeholders, as well as his family, friends and other people close to him.

“Because of that, there was so much clamour from here and there, from all stakeholders, everybody,” Mr Gusau said. “And we knew it was important to see that at least nobody is better than us. And we all love our country, and we all love the progress of our country.”

Gusau said the circumstances surrounding the crisis required him to carefully consider the situation and consult widely before reaching a final decision.

“We made a lot of presentations with family, friends, stakeholders, and all. And I just want to tell you, I decided to resign my position as President. I then advised my board members, I informed them, and I advised them.”

His resignation marks the end of a four-year period at the helm of Nigerian football and comes at a time when the NFF has faced increasing scrutiny over the administration and direction of the country’s football.

Gusau’s decision is expected to trigger a new phase for the federation as Nigerian football stakeholders turn their attention to the process of appointing new leadership and addressing the issues that contributed to the recent crisis.