The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it receives millions of dollars in “free money” from FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In a statement released on Friday, the federation said the funds it gets from the world and continental football bodies are never handouts but strictly allocated for specific projects.
“The monies we receive from FIFA and CAF, like other federations, are usually tied to specific purposes and not gifts to the Federation,” the NFF clarified.
It explained that all funds are properly tracked and audited by both FIFA and CAF at the end of every financial year.
“Every money received from FIFA or CAF is tied to a specific purpose, and both FIFA and CAF send their auditors to audit the accounts in which the monies are received at the end of every year,” the statement added.
The federation further noted that funds meant for football development are carefully assigned to approved projects and programmes.
It cited the ongoing NFF/FIFA Players’ Hostel and the new training pitches at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja as examples of FIFA Forward initiatives carried out under strict financial and operational supervision.
“These projects are subjected to strict controls, monitored and verified at every stage of the work. Every stage is verified, assessed and sanctioned before further monies are released to the FIFA-approved consultants, to whom the monies are paid directly,” the NFF said.
The football body also criticised individuals spreading what it described as false information about FIFA funds. “The individual reeling out fictitious figures would find no reason to seek clout if he has an idea of how much it costs to organise a single match of any of the National Teams,” it added.
Reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the federation maintained that its operations follow international financial standards.
“The NFF is a disciplined organisation that operates prudent and strict financial protocols. The body has regularly presented its audited accounts, prepared by Price Water house Coopers, known for its global credibility and integrity, at every Annual General Assembly,” the statement added.
