NFF Dismisses Reports of FIFA Rejecting Nigeria’s Petition Against DR Congo

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed reports claiming that FIFA has already rejected Nigeria’s petition challenging the eligibility of certain Democratic Republic of Congo players used in the 2026 World Cup African play-off against the Super Eagles.

According to the NFF, the matter is still under review and no official response has been received from world football’s governing body.

Speaking on the issue, NFF Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi made it clear that the federation remains in the dark regarding FIFA’s final decision, contrary to widespread media speculation.

“The Nigeria Football Federation wrote a petition to FIFA on the eligibility of some of the players of DR Congo, and if there is anything, FIFA will reply to the NFF,” Sanusi said during an interview on AIT.

“We have checked our emails and there was no letter from FIFA saying they have thrown away our petition. I don’t know where they got their information from. If there is any such letter, let them show it—unless they have someone in FIFA giving them information ahead of official communication.”

The clarification comes amid growing frustration among Nigerian football fans following claims that FIFA had quietly dismissed the appeal after the Super Eagles’ loss in the play-off final.

Opinion: The NFF’s response highlights a familiar issue in Nigerian football—poor information flow and the speed at which unverified reports spread. While fans are understandably anxious for clarity, jumping to conclusions without official confirmation only fuels confusion and distrust. That said, the federation also owes supporters timely updates, as prolonged silence often creates room for speculation. If FIFA’s ruling eventually goes against Nigeria, transparency will be key in managing public reaction. Until then, patience remains the most realistic option, even if it’s one Nigerian football followers find hard to embrace.

For now, the Super Eagles’ World Cup fate remains uncertain, with all eyes on FIFA’s next official move.