Despite falling short by a single vote in his bid for re-election to the FIFA Council, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Amaju Pinnick remains full of gratitude for his journey in football administration.
The 14th CAF Extraordinary Congress in Cairo saw Pinnick secure 28 votes—just one shy of Mauritania’s Ahmed Yahya and Djibouti’s Souleiman Waberi, who both clinched the final seats with 29 votes. But rather than dwelling on disappointment, Pinnick is embracing gratitude.
“When I started 26 years ago as a volunteer at the FIFA U20 World Cup that Nigeria hosted, I never imagined reaching these heights,” Pinnick reflected. “I have only gratitude to give to God and to those who have supported me along the way.”
Pinnick acknowledged the cutthroat nature of football politics but remained proud of his efforts, having traveled to more than 30 countries during his campaign. “Hours before the election, I was sure of close to 40 votes. But politics happened. I am not bitter, just grateful.”
He also expressed deep appreciation for Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who publicly endorsed his candidature. “I am drawn to tears by the President’s support. I cherish my relationship with Gianni (Infantino) and appreciate his sincerity,” he added, extending gratitude to the National Sports Commission, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and friends in government and the corporate world.
From being slated as head of the NFF electoral committee in 2014 to becoming the youngest Nigerian in FIFA’s supreme council, Pinnick says he is “more than fulfilled.” Despite this setback, his legacy in Nigerian and African football remains significant, and his influence is far from over.
 President Amaju Pinnick){kind=link}