The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is investigating the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over allegations of financial misappropriation. In a press statement, the NSC clarified its involvement in the investigation, stating that it was only requested to provide relevant documents and is not the subject of the probe.
The NSC, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko as Chairman and Honourable Bukola Olopade as Director General, refuted reports suggesting that it was under investigation. It described the headlines in some media outlets as “malicious” and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of the newly established Commission.
In a statement issued by Michael Obasi, Media Aide to the Director General, the NSC criticized the sensationalism of certain reports and emphasized the need for professionalism in sports journalism.
“The EFCC only asked the Commission to furnish it with relevant documents concerning the Nigeria Football Federation. For the writer to headline the story with the caption ‘EFCC is investigating the Sports Commission’ is totally false and unprofessional,” the statement noted.
The EFCC’s focus is on the NFF, which operates under the NSC’s oversight as the apex body for sports in Nigeria. The probe centers on alleged mismanagement of funds by the football federation, a matter that has long been a source of controversy in Nigerian sports administration.
While details of the EFCC investigation remain undisclosed, the NSC has pledged its full cooperation with the anti-graft agency to ensure transparency and accountability in sports governance.
The NSC called on sports journalists to prioritize accurate and balanced reporting, highlighting the critical role the media plays in fostering a vibrant sports economy.
“The leadership of the NSC values the role of the media in the overall sports ecosystem. However, false narratives and sensationalism do more harm than good to the efforts aimed at developing the sports sector,” the statement said.
The Commission further underscored its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s sports landscape through effective branding, marketing, and collaboration with key stakeholders.
The NSC reiterated its mission to build a sustainable and thriving sports economy, urging all stakeholders, including the media, to work collectively toward achieving this vision.
“A professional and responsive media is vital to achieving the vibrant sports economy we all aspire to see,” the NSC concluded.
