FIFA Has Not Ruled Against Nigeria Over Petition on Congo, Says NFF

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed as fake news reports claiming that world football governing body, FIFA, has delivered a ruling against Nigeria following a petition filed against the Republic of Congo over the alleged fielding of ineligible players during the World Cup playoff series.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the NFF described the reports circulating on social media and some online platforms as false, misleading, and entirely unfounded, stressing that no such ruling has been communicated by FIFA to the federation.

According to the NFF, Nigeria duly submitted a petition to FIFA after the World Cup playoff matches, raising concerns over the eligibility status of certain Congolese players, in line with established FIFA statutes and disciplinary procedures.

However, the federation clarified that the matter remains under review, and that no verdict—favourable or otherwise—has been issued.

“There is absolutely no truth to claims that FIFA has ruled against Nigeria on the petition involving Congo,” a senior NFF official said. “As at this moment, FIFA has not communicated any decision to the Nigeria Football Federation. Any report suggesting otherwise is speculative and should be disregarded.”

The federation cautioned the public against relying on unverified sources, noting that FIFA decisions on eligibility matters typically follow a detailed investigative and adjudicatory process, which includes correspondence with all concerned parties before any ruling is made public.

The NFF further emphasised that Nigeria’s petition was filed in good faith and based on information available to its legal and technical teams at the time, adding that engaging FIFA through formal channels is a legitimate right available to all member associations.

It also urged media organisations and football stakeholders to exercise professionalism and restraint, warning that the spread of unverified information could mislead fans and undermine confidence in football administration.

“As a responsible federation, we will promptly inform Nigerians if and when FIFA communicates an official decision on the matter,” the NFF added.

Nigeria, a three-time African champion and one of the continent’s most successful football nations, has previously been involved in FIFA adjudications over player eligibility issues, many of which were resolved through established legal and disciplinary frameworks.

For now, the NFF insists that reports of a ruling against Nigeria remain false and that the public should await official communication from FIFA.