July 09, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has thrown his weight behind Nigeria’s attempt to retain its seat on the FIFA Council. The support comes as Mr Amaju Pinnick, former President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), seeks re-election to the principal decision-making body of world football’s governing organisation.
The FIFA Council, which consists of 37 members elected for four-year terms, plays a crucial role in making decisions between FIFA Congress meetings. Pinnick, who led the NFF for two terms, was first elected to the Council in March 2021, becoming the third Nigerian to hold this position after Oyo Orok Oyo and Dr Amos Adamu.
Nigeria’s presence on the FIFA Council is seen as important for the country’s influence in global football affairs. The re-election bid, if successful, would allow Nigeria to continue its representation on this key international platform.
The President’s endorsement was announced through a press release issued by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity. This high-level support highlights the significance the Nigerian government places on maintaining its position within FIFA’s leadership structure.
The outcome of the election will be closely watched by football stakeholders in Nigeria and across Africa. A successful re-election would reinforce Nigeria’s status in international football governance and potentially bring benefits to the development of the sport in the country.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
