The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has firmly denied allegations that it owed any outstanding payments to the late former Super Eagles captain and coach, Christian Chukwu, prior to his passing.
Reacting to widespread reports that emerged shortly after Chukwu’s death claims suggesting the NFF was indebted to him to the tune of $128,000, the NFF’s General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, dismissed the assertions as baseless and unfounded.
According to Dr. Sanusi, a thorough review of the federation’s records showed no trace of any financial obligation owed to Chukwu by the football body. He emphasized that the NFF has always maintained a responsible approach in dealing with staff contracts and outstanding payments.
“There is no record in the NFF of any outstanding indebtedness to the late Christian Chukwu, fondly known as ‘Chairman,’” Sanusi stated. “During the first tenure of the Amaju Pinnick-led Board, a special committee was established to carefully review the claims of coaches who were owed from previous administrations. That committee was mandated to authenticate every claim and ensure prompt payment where applicable.”
Sanusi also provided context on Chukwu’s time with the NFF, noting that the former coach was officially employed by the federation between 2002 and 2005. His tenure came to an end after a 1-1 draw with Angola in a crucial 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifier held in Kano in August 2005.
“To the best of our knowledge and available documentation, there is no pending debt owed to him from that period,” Sanusi affirmed.
He further invited anyone in possession of verifiable documents indicating the NFF’s indebtedness to Chukwu or to any other coach to present such proof. He assured that if the claims are validated, the federation would settle the amount without delay.
“As a reputable organization that takes its responsibilities seriously, we are open to scrutiny,” he said. “If any credible evidence surfaces showing that we owe the late coach or any other person, we will honor that obligation immediately.”
The NFF’s clarification aims to quell speculation and maintain its stance on transparency and accountability within the football community.
