The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is yet to approve or ratify the proposed constitution of an interim board to oversee the affairs of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), according to sources familiar with the matter.
The world football governing body has also not endorsed the composition of any proposed interim administration for the NFF.
A reliable source close to the development told our correspondent that at a recent meeting in Zurich involving FIFA officials, representatives of the Nigerian government and the NFF, FIFA merely listened to the submissions and positions presented by the Nigerian delegation.
According to the source, FIFA did not give its approval for the immediate constitution of an interim administration but instead resolved to send a delegation to Nigeria to assess the situation firsthand and consult with relevant football stakeholders.
“Rather than endorse the immediate constitution of an interim administration, FIFA resolved to send a delegation to Nigeria for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and consultations with the relevant football stakeholders,” the source said.
The proposed visit is expected to enable FIFA to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the impasse within the NFF, particularly in the wake of the mass resignation of members of the Gusau-led NFF Executive Committee.
The source said that following its assessment and consultations in Nigeria, FIFA would be expected to work with relevant stakeholders to develop a roadmap for resolving the crisis and restoring stability within the federation.
“It is important to emphasise that FIFA, as the world governing body for association football, operates within a clearly defined regulatory framework governed by its Statutes and other applicable regulations,” the source added.
“Matters relating to the administration and governance of member associations are therefore expected to be addressed strictly in accordance with these established rules and principles.
“Consequently, the resolution of the current situation within the NFF will ultimately have to conform to FIFA’s Statutes, regulations and established governance procedures.”
The source consequently cautioned against reports suggesting that FIFA had already approved or ratified an interim board for the NFF, including the proposed composition of such a body.
Such reports, the source said, were premature and should be treated with caution pending FIFA’s planned assessment and consultations in Nigeria.
“Further developments are expected following the proposed FIFA visit to Nigeria and its consultations with the relevant stakeholders,” the source said.