President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s football system to address the country’s repeated failures to qualify for major regional, continental and global tournaments.

In a statement by his Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday, the president directed the National Sports Commission to work with the Nigeria Football Federation and other stakeholders to strengthen football governance, administration, development pathways, domestic competitions and accountability.

Tinubu said the reform was necessary to ensure that Nigeria’s abundant football talent, passion and resources are matched by stronger institutions and sustained performance.

“Football, Nigeria’s most popular sport and the greatest beneficiary of public support, investment and national attention, has continued to struggle basically due to structural deficits within the system,” he said.

He also directed the authorities to engage FIFA and the Confederation of African Football as part of the reform process while safeguarding Nigeria’s obligations under the international football framework.

The president called on football stakeholders and Nigerians to support the transition and work together to build a stronger, more accountable and successful football system.

Tinubu directed the Chairman of the National Sports Commission to work with the NFF Secretariat and relevant football stakeholders to ensure continuity in essential football administration and facilitate a broad, consultative reform process. (The PUNCH)