Pinnick Says False Claims on FIFA Funds Are Damaging Nigeria’s Image

Deputy Chairperson of the FIFA Men’s Competitions Committee, Amaju Pinnick, has pushed back against claims surrounding the Kebbi stadium project, saying false narratives from uninformed Nigerians are harming the country’s reputation. Pinnick stated this during an interview on Arise Television on Thursday.

The controversy began after former Super Eagles captain, Sunday Oliseh, alleged that officials of the Nigeria Football Federation pocketed $1 million intended by FIFA for the construction of the stadium. His claims were followed by a rebuttal from the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, who insisted that no such funds were received for the project.

Pinnick said the award process followed internationally accepted standards and complied fully with Nigeria’s Procurement Act. He explained that tenders were openly issued, several companies competed, and the winning firm had an established history of delivering stadium projects in the country.

He also noted that the contract, valued at $1.2 million about ₦400 million at the time remained unchanged despite the economic impact of COVID-19. According to him, all documentation went through the proper channels and the project followed due process from start to finish.