Crisis Brews In Nigerian Football: Nationwide Protest Meet Government Resistance

Crisis Brews In Nigerian Football: Nationwide Protest Meet Government Resistance

By BSN Sports 

The Save Nigeria Football Movement (SNFM) has called for a nationwide protest on November 17, 2025, to demand sweeping reforms in Nigerian football governance and the removal of key officials in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

In a statement signed by its coordinator, Ladi Waidi and made available to BSN Sports, the movement urged football fans, stakeholders, and the general public to converge on the NFF headquarters in Abuja to “end bad governance and corruption in Nigerian football.”

The group accused NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, who has served in the position for over a decade, of incompetence and corruption, alleging that his continued leadership has hindered the progress of Nigerian football. “We insist that we will no longer tolerate the mismanagement and corruption that has plagued Nigerian football for years. It’s time for a change, and we are calling on all Nigerians to join us on November 17 to demand a better future for our football,” the statement read.

The SNFM also questioned the NFF’s recent claims of success in securing playoff qualification without acknowledging the role of the National Sports Commission (NSC), calling for greater transparency and accountability in football administration.

However, the Federal Government has issued a strong warning against the planned protest, labeling it an “illegal gathering” that could threaten public peace.

According to a government source quoted in a counter statement circulated from the Presidential Villa, authorities are aware of “clandestine moves by some unregistered groups” to incite unrest under the guise of football reform.

 “The government has classified any unauthorized protest against any institution of government as illegal,” the source said. “Commissioners of police across the country have been placed on alert to prevent any breakdown of law and order.”

The statement further urged citizens to avoid actions that could “jeopardize national peace,” emphasizing dialogue as the proper channel for airing grievances.

 “Let us not allow a moment of frustration to undo years of hard work,” the government’s statement concluded. “Instead, let us recommit to peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.”

The standoff highlights growing tensions between football stakeholders demanding accountability and government authorities seeking to maintain control over public demonstrations.