The Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to help address what it describes as a sustained decline in Nigerian football.
In a letter dated August 20 and signed by its National President, Abayomi Ogunjimi, the supporters’ organisation called for a structured and transparent dialogue involving the Presidency, the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and recognised football stakeholders.
ANFASSC stressed that its request should not be interpreted as a call for the Federal Government to interfere with the statutory autonomy of the NFF under FIFA and CAF regulations.
Instead, the group wants the Presidency to provide leadership in bringing the different stakeholders together to develop practical solutions for the problems confronting Nigerian football.
Mounting Concerns
The appeal comes after a series of disappointing results involving Nigeria’s national teams.
ANFASSC pointed to the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as well as the Super Falcons’ failure to secure qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. The organisation also highlighted setbacks involving Nigeria’s youth teams.
The supporters’ group believes these failures should be treated as symptoms of deeper structural problems rather than isolated sporting disappointments.
The organisation is therefore seeking a modern football system built around improved governance, investment, development and stakeholder cooperation.
Call for Structured Dialogue
ANFASSC wants the Presidency to set a timeframe for discussions between government officials, the NFF and football stakeholders.
The group believes such engagement could help establish a roadmap for rebuilding Nigerian football without undermining the independence of the football federation.
The appeal comes amid wider restructuring efforts within Nigerian football. Earlier this month, the National Sports Commission cancelled the NFF electoral congress scheduled for September 27 and indicated plans to establish a normalisation committee to oversee the federation temporarily.
The situation has therefore intensified debate about the future direction of Nigerian football and the leadership structures required to restore confidence.
Beyond the National Teams
The current debate also raises broader questions about grassroots development, coaching, player welfare, administration and financial accountability.
For ANFASSC, restoring Nigeria’s football fortunes will require more than changing individuals. It will require a functioning ecosystem capable of producing talented players, developing professional coaches, maintaining strong competitions and ensuring transparent administration.
The supporters’ organisation expressed confidence that Nigeria can regain its position as one of Africa’s leading football nations if the right policies, investment and leadership are put in place.
The latest appeal therefore places football reform firmly back on the national agenda, with stakeholders waiting to see whether the Presidency will respond to the call for dialogue.
