The fate of Nigeria’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain, as the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, confirmed that the matter is now in the hands of the world football governing body.
The issue arose after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a formal protest to FIFA, alleging that the DR Congo national team fielded ineligible players during the African play-off final for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The protest claims that the use of these players violated the rules, potentially affecting Nigeria’s chance to advance to the intercontinental play-offs.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Dikko said the competitive chapter of the 2026 World Cup is closed for Nigeria, but the legal process regarding the protest is ongoing.
“World Cup is a closed chapter for us competitively, but the legal matter is pending,” Dikko said. “The relevant independent bodies within FIFA will decide.”
He explained that while the Super Eagles cannot influence the ongoing matches, there is still hope that a ruling could allow Nigeria to participate in the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 2026.
Dikko expressed optimism about a positive outcome. “I am confident that the appeal lodged by the NFF will be given fair consideration and that the Super Eagles may yet be reinstated,” he added.
The dispute centers on the African play-off final where Nigeria faced DR Congo for a chance to advance in the World Cup qualifiers. Allegations surfaced that DR Congo fielded players who were not eligible under FIFA rules. Such infractions can result in disqualification, forfeiting of matches, or replaying games if proven.
The NFF’s protest follows FIFA’s established procedures for filing complaints regarding eligibility violations. These complaints are reviewed by independent FIFA committees that examine match reports, player registration documents, and other relevant evidence.
This is not the first time Nigeria has contested an international football result due to alleged eligibility breaches. The country has previously raised concerns about officiating decisions and player eligibility in African competitions, reflecting a growing focus on protecting the rights of national teams.
During the meeting with President Tinubu, Dikko briefed the president on the status of Nigeria’s World Cup appeal and the steps taken by the NFF. He emphasized that the federal government supports the legal process and is closely monitoring the situation.
President Tinubu reportedly expressed confidence that FIFA will handle the matter fairly and urged all stakeholders to remain patient while awaiting the final decision.
If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles will be reinstated to face an opponent in the intercontinental play-offs next March. This would give the team another opportunity to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, keeping hopes alive for fans across the country.
However, if FIFA upholds DR Congo’s results, Nigeria will miss out on the chance to advance, ending the Super Eagles’ 2026 campaign prematurely. This outcome would be a significant blow to the team and its supporters, given the importance of World Cup participation for national pride and football development.
The case has generated widespread attention among Nigerian football fans and sports analysts. Many fans have taken to social media to express support for the NFF’s protest, urging FIFA to review the matter carefully. Analysts have also highlighted the need for transparency and timely resolution, as the intercontinental play-offs are approaching quickly.
Football commentators noted that the ruling could set a precedent for similar eligibility disputes in African football. Ensuring that regulations are enforced fairly is seen as crucial to maintaining integrity in the sport.
With the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 2026, Nigeria has limited time to await FIFA’s decision and prepare the team accordingly. Sports authorities, including the NSC and NFF, are actively monitoring communications from FIFA while keeping players and coaching staff informed of developments.
Shehu Dikko urged stakeholders and the public to remain calm and patient. “We trust that FIFA’s independent bodies will deliver a fair judgment based on facts. The Super Eagles deserve clarity, and we await the ruling,” he said.
The 2026 World Cup remains a central focus for Nigerian football fans, who hope to see their team compete on the world stage once again. The outcome of this legal process will determine whether the Super Eagles can continue their campaign and represent Nigeria in the international tournament.
For now, the ball remains in FIFA’s court, and Nigeria must wait for the governing body’s final decision on the eligibility dispute with DR Congo.
