Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick, has described his appointment as Deputy Chairperson of the FIFA Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee as a recognition of Nigeria’s rising profile in global sports.
Speaking on ARISE News on Thursday, Pinnick expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying his new position was not just a personal milestone but a reflection of Nigeria’s growing relevance within FIFA.
“The importance of this is a recognition of Nigeria, as well as global sports,” Pinnick said. “First, I’m saying that I’m humbled by the opportunity for me… the Committee for Competitions is the most important committee, because FIFA is all about competitions, organising competitions, which also includes the World Cup, the U-20 and the U-17, even up to the Club World Cup.”
He explained that the committee plays a central role in shaping global football, overseeing the organisation and participation of all FIFA tournaments. “It’s a committee that has a responsibility. It has to be seen with national teams, with national team players, to be allowed to play in any of those competitions,” he stated.
Pinnick also highlighted the representation of Africa on the committee, noting the inclusion of other prominent figures such as South Africa’s Danny Jordaan.
“A lot of people in the committee, even Danny Jordaan from South Africa, is a member of the committee. Danny Jordaan was chairman of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. So, we are very, very happy,” he said.
He further emphasised FIFA’s merit-based selection process, noting that appointments are made based on professionalism and integrity rather than regional or political considerations.
“FIFA does not just select people. They don’t select based on nationality or regionalism, but also on standards, organisation, and administration,” Pinnick stressed.
Expressing national pride, he added, “I’m humbled, and I’m glad to be here because once again, I’m in the Green White Flag in FIFA’s books.”
Pinnick also mentioned Nigeria’s growing influence within FIFA structures, citing several Nigerians currently serving on various committees.
“It’s not just about me. The incumbent president of the Nigeria Football Federation is also a member of the Interclub Committee. There’s a very seasoned journalist and former chairperson of the Women’s League, who is a member of the Communications Committee. Then, because I am a member of the Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee, I was just declared to be a feminist. I returned in the Congress. I was very proud to be a member of the Feminist Committee. So, we are happy that Nigeria is a global leader.”
When asked about Nigeria’s World Cup qualification prospects, Pinnick maintained confidence in the country’s football authorities.
“We are working. We are working with the National Sports Commission. We are working with the Federation. The National Sports Commission is like having sleepless nights on it. They are in alignment with me. You know, it’s not that we can do any magic, but whenever it’s possible, we definitely do,” he said.
Pinnick’s appointment as Deputy Chairperson of FIFA’s Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee is seen as a major boost for Nigeria and Africa, granting the continent a stronger voice in decisions that shape global football governance.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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