The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has suspended its planned Elective Congress scheduled for September 27, 2026, in Lafia, Nasarawa State, as the federation prepares for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigerian football, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The decision was announced by the federation on Thursday, with the NFF confirming that all activities and procedures previously initiated ahead of the election have also been put on hold.
According to the NFF, a new electoral process will only begin after the proposed reforms have been completed in consultation with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“All processes initiated in preparation for the NFF Elective Congress scheduled for 27 September have also been suspended.
“A fresh electoral process will commence following the completion of the anticipated comprehensive reforms, to be undertaken in consultation with world football’s governing body, FIFA, and CAF,” the federation stated.
As part of the interim administrative measures, former NFF Director of Media and Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire, has been appointed Interim Deputy General Secretary.
The federation has also introduced temporary changes to the administration of Nigeria’s major domestic competitions, directing the chairmen, appointed directors and chief executive officers of the NPFL, NNL, NWFL and NLO to hand over their administrative responsibilities to their respective Chief Operating Officers.
The NFF clarified that the COOs overseeing the leagues must be members of the federation’s staff.
Where an existing COO does not meet that requirement, the Acting General Secretary has been empowered to appoint a replacement from within the NFF.
The federation said the measures are intended to guarantee continuity and prevent disruptions to domestic football while consultations on the proposed reforms continue.
The NFF is expected to work with FIFA, CAF, the Federal Government and other stakeholders to develop a roadmap for the restructuring of Nigerian football before a new electoral timetable is announced.
The suspension effectively ends the previously announced September 27 electoral schedule, with another election process expected to commence once the reform programme has been completed.
The latest development represents a significant change in the administration of Nigerian football and could pave the way for broader reforms in the governance and management of the country’s football system.