Dalung order NFF to probe ‘mis-appropriation’ of $1.1m FIFA fund

Sports minister Solomon Dalung has suggested a lack of accountability at the Nigeria Football Federation after he claimed the NFF have failed to account for $1.1 million in grants given to them by world football governing body, FIFA.

The minister has also ordered an audit of the finances of the NFF, after FIFA suspended any grants to the Glass House until they properly account for $1.1 million that has been paid to them.

“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 the Nigeria for lack of proper documentation of $802,000 out of the funds released to NFF,” Dalung said in his speech during NFF’s Annual General Assembly in Lagos on Sunday.

“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 Excellency, Mohammadu Buhari has zero tolerance for any act of mis-appropriation, mis-application, embezzlement or fraud in any guise.

“To this end, the NFF is directed to immediately provide 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.”