Forum Petitions President Tinubu Over Alleged Misuse Of N1.6 Billion AFCON Funds For Feeding, Others
A growing storm of controversy has erupted within Nigeria’s sports sector as a concerned forum has formally petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to investigate allegations of financial mismanagement related to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign. At the center of the dispute is an eye-popping N1.6 billion reportedly spent on feeding, logistics, and other tournament-related expenses, sparking heated calls for transparency and accountability.
The forum, which represents a coalition of civil society organizations, sports enthusiasts, and fiscal watchdogs, submitted the petition to the Presidency, demanding a thorough probe into the alleged misuse of funds allocated for Nigeria’s AFCON preparations. The group expressed concerns that such financial irregularities undermine the credibility of Nigerian football governance and erode public trust in the administration of sports funds.
The allegations center on how funds earmarked for the national football team’s AFCON campaign were utilized. Specifically, the forum questions the necessity and transparency of spending such a significant amount—N1.6 billion—on expenses like feeding, accommodations, and other logistics.
“This expenditure appears excessive when compared to the cost structures in similar tournaments, both within and outside Africa,” the petition read in part. “The lack of detailed financial reporting leaves room for speculation about possible mismanagement or diversion of funds.”
The petition also emphasized the broader implications of unchecked financial practices in the sports sector, warning that such irregularities could discourage private sponsorship and international collaboration critical to the development of Nigerian sports.
The forum urged President Tinubu to direct the Ministry of Sports Development and relevant anti-corruption agencies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to conduct a forensic audit of the funds. They also called for public disclosure of the audit findings to foster transparency and accountability.
"It is not enough to allocate funds for our national teams; we must ensure that every naira is judiciously spent for the intended purpose,” the group asserted.
Nigeria’s AFCON campaigns have historically garnered significant public interest, with fans holding high expectations for the national team. However, some critics argue that financial controversies like these detract from the team’s focus and morale.
The Super Eagles’ preparations for the 2023 tournament have already been marred by logistical challenges, which many attribute to poor planning and mismanagement. This has fueled speculation about the misuse of allocated funds, prompting calls for systemic reforms in the administration of Nigerian football.
As of the time of writing, the Presidency has not issued an official response to the petition. However, insiders within the sports ministry have hinted at plans to address the matter, citing President Tinubu’s commitment to accountability in public service.
The forum’s petition adds to growing public discourse about transparency in government and the management of public funds. While many Nigerians eagerly await President Tinubu’s stance, the issue underscores the broader challenges facing the governance of sports in Nigeria.
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