DSS, NIA Probe Alleged Foreign Links, Sabotage Claims Against NFF Officials
The Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) are reportedly investigating allegations that some senior officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) may have been engaging with foreign interests in activities considered capable of undermining Nigeria’s national security.
A security source disclosed that the two intelligence agencies allegedly intercepted communications between some NFF officials and foreign nationals, describing the contents as sufficiently disturbing to warrant a joint investigation.
The source, however, clarified that the probe is separate from concerns over the ₦17 billion intervention fund approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024 to help the NFF settle outstanding salaries, allowances and bonuses owed to members of Nigeria’s national teams.
According to the source, any investigation involving financial misappropriation of the fund falls under the jurisdiction of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), rather than the DSS or NIA.
The source explained that while the DSS is primarily concerned with threats to Nigeria’s internal security, the NIA focuses on external intelligence matters, making a joint investigation by both agencies an indication of the seriousness of the allegations.
The development comes amid growing criticism of the NFF over the management and funding of Nigeria’s national football teams.
Football stakeholders and supporters have expressed concern over the country’s recent setbacks, including the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments and the Super Falcons’ failure to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The NFF executive committee, led by Ibrahim Gusau, is also reportedly facing mounting pressure to resign following the recent setbacks and the reported resignation or planned resignation of more than half of its members.
The uncertainty has also raised questions over the NFF election scheduled for September 27 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
A source within the football body said the reported resignation of several executive members could be linked to the growing pressure surrounding the alleged DSS and NIA investigation, potentially creating uncertainty over the planned election.
The allegations have not been publicly confirmed by the DSS, NIA or the NFF, and the outcome of the reported investigation remains unknown.
