National Sports Commission defends N6.44bn World Cup qualifiers budget rollover
via Punch Nigeria11 min read
The National Sports Commission has clarified the N6.44bn allocated in the 2026 budget for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a campaign that concluded in November 2025. This allocation, part of President Bola Tinubu's N58.18tn "Budget of Restoration," drew public scrutiny, including from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, due to Nigeria's failure to qualify for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The NSC explained that the budget subhead was rolled over from the 2025 budget because the initial Special Presidential Support Group fund for the qualifiers was inadequate and not released. The increased allocation was intended to cover outstanding obligations, potential participation in intercontinental playoffs, and other preparatory commitments. The NSC stated that the Super Eagles' qualifying campaign was in jeopardy in October 2024, with only three points from four matches. The Special Support Group project was initiated to coordinate support for the team, including directly paying the Head Coach's salary, which helped the team gather 14 points from the subsequent six matches to reach the African playoffs final. Although Nigeria lost in the African playoffs final in November 2025 and missed the World Cup, the team went on to secure a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Following Nigeria's elimination, the NSC engaged with the National Assembly and the Budget Office to amend the budget subhead, redirecting the N6.44bn to support other national
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