I Have Moved On’ – Amaju Pinnick Reacts After Failing To Retain FIFA Position

The former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has emphasized that he holds no resentment despite his recent loss in the FIFA Council elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

During the 14th Extraordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Cairo, Pinnick narrowly missed re-election, securing 28 votes—just one short of Djibouti’s Souleiman Waberi, who clinched the final spot with 29 votes. Morocco’s Fouzi Lekjaa led the poll with 49 votes, while Egypt’s Hani Abou Rida and Niger Republic’s Djibrilla Hima Hamidou each garnered 35 votes. Mauritania’s Ahmed Yahya and Waberi completed the list of successful candidates with 29 votes apiece.

Despite the setback, Pinnick expressed deep gratitude for his journey in football administration, which began 26 years ago when he volunteered during the FIFA Under-20 World Cup hosted by Nigeria.

“I have nothing but gratitude to God, to everyone who has supported me along the way, and to those I have met on this journey,” Pinnick reflected after the election.

Recognizing the complexities of football politics, Pinnick stated that he was proud of his efforts, even though the final outcome did not favor him.

“Football politics is intense, but I am proud to have put up a strong fight. I campaigned extensively, traveling to over 30 countries. Hours before the election, I was confident of securing close to 40 votes, but politics played out. I hold no grudges—just gratitude for the overwhelming support,” he said.

Pinnick extended heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the NFF, and Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, for their steadfast backing.

“I am deeply touched by President Tinubu’s support, especially his public endorsement of my candidacy. I am sincerely grateful and do not take it for granted. I also value my relationship with Gianni Infantino and appreciate his honesty. Special thanks to Shehu Dikko and the National Sports Commission. The NFF, especially Ibrahim Musa Gusau, was incredible in their support, as were my friends in government and the corporate sector,” he added.

Reflecting on his unexpected rise in football governance, Pinnick remarked, “Back in 2014, I was only meant to head the NFF electoral committee, but fate propelled me to the presidency and eventually to FIFA’s highest governing body as its youngest-ever Nigerian member. I am truly fulfilled.”