NFF begins reform, appoints new NPFL leadership

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has begun implementing its proposed reforms of Nigerian football with the appointment of Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Read Also: Gusau’s exit: Reset button or fresh crisis for Nigerian football?

Abdulrahaman’s appointment, which takes immediate effect, was announced on Friday as the 2026/27 NPFL season got underway with the opening fixture between CAF Confederation Cup representatives Shooting Stars and newly promoted Inter Lagos at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan.

Read Also: President Tinubu orders comprehensive reform of Nigerian football

The appointment is the latest step in the restructuring of Nigerian football following the mass resignation of the NFF leadership and the federation’s decision to suspend preparations for its September 27 elective congress.

Experienced administrator joins NPFL

Abdulrahaman holds a doctorate degree in sports administration and brings extensive experience in football organisation and administration, having worked across various leagues in Nigeria.

Read Also: N203bn later, Nigeria’s football crisis deepens

The NFF’s interim general secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, said the appointment followed the federation’s directive of August 27 for board members and chief executive officers of the various leagues, as well as chief operating officers who are not NFF staff, to vacate their positions.

The directive forms part of the interim measures introduced to ensure continuity in football administration while broader reforms of the NFF structure are undertaken.

Read Also: Mikel Obi calls for radical overhaul of Nigerian football,…