The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Thursday inaugurated its Electoral and Appeals Committees to oversee elections into its Executive Committee for the 2026–2030 term.

NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, who chaired the inauguration at the secretariat in Abuja, urged members to uphold fairness, transparency and integrity.

Mr Gusau charged the committees to act without bias or external pressure, stressing the importance of credibility in strengthening football governance in Nigeria.

“We expect diligence, neutrality and courage. This process must inspire confidence locally and internationally as a model of transparent football administration,” he said.

He added that the federation would fully support the committees to deliver credible elections acceptable to all stakeholders.

Speaking on behalf of the committees, Matthew Burka’a pledged professionalism and accountability throughout the process.

“We will conduct a free, fair and credible election that reflects global best practice and earns the trust of the football community,” Mr Burka’a said.

The NFF president said the exercise had attracted global attention from FIFA, CAF and other stakeholders, and will set a benchmark for future sporting and political elections.

“We understand the weight of expectation. This election will stand as a reference point for integrity, not just in football but in governance,” he added.

Members of the Electoral Committee include Mr Burka’a, Babagoni Grema, Bature Musa, Ayibaye Temedie and Olugbenga Omole, while Arinze Anughele and Abayomi Omoyimi will serve as alternates.

The Appeals Committee comprises Justice C.J. Aneke, Benjamin Sati and Abdulmalik Awwal, with Emmanuel Obafemi and Ayi Ukpayam as alternates.

The NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, will serve as secretary to both committees in line with statutory provisions.

The elections to the NFF Executive Committee are scheduled to be held on 26 September in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

Dignitaries at the event included Philip Shaibu, Felix Anyansi-Agwu, Silas Agara, George Aluo and other senior NFF officials.

(NAN)