Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has denied allegations of financial mismanagement surrounding the FIFA Goal Project in Kebbi State.
The controversy erupted after a FIFA social media post showed the half-completed Benin-Kebbi Stadium, prompting widespread criticism from Nigerians questioning how project funds were utilized.
In an interview with ARISE News, Pinnick described the accusations as “completely misconstrued,” stressing that FIFA strictly monitors and audits every Goal Project fund.
“If FIFA gives you their money, they audit it and follow every detail. The contract was about $1.1 million in 2020 — that was less than ₦400 million then. People don’t understand that,” Pinnick explained.
He added that the project followed due process, noting there was no variation or additional funding despite construction delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Everything went according to plan. You can hate Amaju Pinnick, but love Nigerian football,” he said.
Pinnick urged Nigerians to verify facts before drawing conclusions, maintaining that his administration operated with transparency and accountability.
The FIFA Goal Project, designed to improve football infrastructure worldwide, continues to spark debate in Nigeria over the condition of facilities developed under the initiative.
Further updates and clarifications from Pinnick and the NFF are expected in the coming days.