Nigeria Football Crisis: Why HURIWA is Demanding NFF Leadership Resignation
The Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA) has demanded the immediate resignation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) leadership to rescue the nation’s football from systemic collapse.
The rights body issued this call on Thursday, urging the National Sports Commission (NSC) to declare a state of emergency in Nigerian football.
The prominent civil society group insists that politicians and opportunists must step down to allow seasoned football professionals to take over.
Crisis Reaches Existential Levels
According to HURIWA National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, Nigerian football faces an unprecedented existential crisis. The association highlighted catastrophic milestones under the current administration, including two consecutive World Cup misses for the Super Eagles, and absence from the 2027 Women’s World Cup later this year in Brazil.
“This is no longer just about missing football tournaments. It is about the gradual destruction of a national institution that has given Nigerians pride, unity, and happiness for generations.” HURIWA asserted in the statement
Calls for a Professional Takeover
The group further demanded the institution of a new NFF leadership structure that puts world-class Nigerian football veterans and administrators at the helm.
It listed several highly qualified professionals who possess the integrity and experience to rebuild the game such as former Chelsea Technical Director Michael Emenalo, former internationals Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha and Segun Odegbami.
