FIFA’s decision to use an image of the Birnin Kebbi Stadium as its new profile banner on official social media pages has sparked controversy in Nigeria. The photo, showing the partially completed mini-stadium in Kebbi State, went viral on social media, prompting debate over the alleged mismanagement of funds meant for grassroots football development.
The project, launched in 2020 under the FIFA Forward Programme, was jointly executed by FIFA and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The programme aims to promote grassroots football development in Nigeria, with the Birnin Kebbi mini-stadium project reportedly costing $1.18 million. The project was inaugurated in 2023 by Governor Nasir Idris, with FIFA stating it was part of its commitment to promoting grassroots football in Nigeria.
However, social media users have interpreted FIFA’s post as a subtle criticism of the NFF amid renewed allegations of corruption. Football critic, Chinedu Mobike, had earlier accused the NFF of mishandling $1.2 million earmarked for two FIFA-backed stadiums in Kebbi and Ugborodo, Delta State. The NFF denied the allegations in a statement on October 24, insisting that all FIFA and CAF funds are tied to specific projects and audited regularly.
Despite the clarification, FIFA’s social media update has reignited public criticism, with many Nigerians viewing it as an embarrassment to the country’s football administration. While some have defended FIFA’s action as recognition of a development project, others have described it as a veiled message highlighting inefficiency and poor accountability within the NFF.
The controversy surrounding the Birnin Kebbi Stadium project has highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the management of funds meant for grassroots football development. As the debate continues, FIFA has not issued any official comment regarding the motive behind using the Kebbi stadium image on its social media banner. The development has significant implications for the future of football development in Nigeria, and it remains to be seen how the controversy will be resolved.