Dalung orders probe of NFF finances after FIFA stops grants to Nigeria

Sports minister Solomon Dalung has ordered an audit of the finances of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) after world football governing body FIFA suspended any grants to the FA until they properly account for $1.1 million that has been paid to them. Dalung was most scathing of the rot at the NFF in his speech during Sunday’s Annual General Assembly in Lagos.

“I received a report from the NFF intimating me of FIFA’s audit Report which raised queries on the management of $1.1 Million FIFA’s development grant to the NFF. According to the Report, FIFA has withheld all development funds to Nigeria for lack of proper documentation of $802,000 out of the funds released to NFF,” reported Dalung.

Dalung

“This is a very serious issue that must be given urgent attention to avoid another international embarrassment, more so that the present administration under the leadership of Mr. President, His Exce-llency, Muham-madu Buhari has zero tolerance for any act of mis-appropriation, mis-application, embezz-lement or fraud in any guise.

“To this end, the NFF is directed to immediately provide to my office with detail information of receipt, disbursement and application of the FIFA development grant accordingly.

“In addition, a reputable audit firm should be appointed urgently to check the account books of the federation to ensure that funds are judiciously expended.

“The audit report must be made public so as to promote transparency, build credibility and enhance your market value.”