NSC chairman Shehu Dikko clarifies FIFA does not solely decide Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup play-off spot, independent FIFA bodies will handle eligibility dispute

Shehu Dikko, chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), has clarified that FIFA does not have sole authority to determine the Super Eagles’ direct play-off spot in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

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Speaking after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, Dikko explained that independent judicial bodies within FIFA, including the disciplinary and ethics committees, will review and rule on the eligibility dispute involving the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

In December 2025, the Nigeria Football Federation filed a formal complaint with FIFA, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players who hold European passports, which violates Congolese law prohibiting dual citizenship.

Dikko said: “Even FIFA, it’s not FIFA deciding. Independent bodies within FIFA make their decisions based on the rules. They won’t tell you when; when they finish, they will announce the verdict.”

The dispute follows Nigeria’s loss to DR Congo in a penalty shoot-out during the intercontinental play-off in November 2025.

If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, DR Congo could be disqualified, potentially altering the 2026 World Cup play-off bracket.

Sanusi Mohammed described the situation as a “dual nationality trap,” highlighting alleged procedural flaws in the player clearance process.

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The Super Eagles now await FIFA’s independent ruling as their World Cup hopes remain under review.