FIFA cannot build stadiums for any country — Reps clarify amid $1.2m Kebbi projects

The Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Kabiru Amadu, has clarified that the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, FIFA, does not build or construct standard stadiums for any country, contrary to assumptions surrounding the $1.2 million Kebbi Stadium project.

Amadu made the clarification on Wednesday during an interview on Channels Television, following public backlash over a viral photo showing the half-completed FIFA-funded facility in Kebbi State.

He explained that FIFA only provides football development grants to member associations, which may be used for projects such as mini-stadiums, coaching programmes, or grassroots football initiatives.

“According to FIFA’s rules, the body cannot build or construct a standard stadium for any nation. FIFA only supports football development through its grants,” he said.

The clarification follows public outrage after FIFA, in a social media post, showcased the Kebbi mini-stadium built under its FIFA Forward Programme, prompting Nigerians to question how the $1.2 million allocation was spent.

While the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has insisted that all FIFA funds are properly accounted for, critics have continued to raise concerns over transparency and project implementation.

Amadu also dismissed comparisons between the Kebbi facility and Kenya’s more advanced stadium, noting that such a project would require far more than the approved amount.

“There is no way $1.2 million can construct that kind of stadium in today’s economy,” he stated. “Member associations may use the funds for mini-stadiums, training, or other developmental programmes, not world-class facilities.”

The House of Representatives had earlier announced plans to probe FIFA and Confederation of African Football, CAF, grants totalling $25 million received by the NFF.