The Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick has given his utmost appreciation to football’s world governing body, FIFA for the $1 million (one million dollars) the federation received in the frame of COVID-19 palliatives as it was received by NFF and re-confirmed by the purpose from the body.
FIFA sent $600,000 to the Federation for the FIFA Forward 2.0 projects in Birnin-Kebbi and Ugborodo. At $300,000 each, this will enable the mini-stadia in both centers to start at a very good pace, as NFF earmark completion by the end of March 2021.
“As a further breakdown, the $1 million for palliatives is composed of $500,000 for men’s football and $500,000 for the women’s game. FIFA has also promised to send the Federation an additional $500,000 sometime in January 2021, also as part of COVID-19 palliative efforts”, Pinnick further revealed.
“On the continent, we have received confirmation from CAF that the Federation will receive the expected $300,000 from the Confederation on or before Sunday, the 1st of November. With the $200,000 already ring-fenced from sponsors’ funds for the purpose of which the coast will then be cleared to start the disbursement of funds to the beneficiaries, as captured in the approved template, from next week.”
“Even though we are bolstered by the guidelines from FIFA strictly outlying the purposes of these funds as well as the approval of the NFF Executive Board, we will also interface with our auditors, Pricewater house Coopers, on each and every line item, to ensure the disbursements conform to global best practices.”
“All Beneficiaries must ensure 100% compliance to guidelines by ensuring that all funds are paid into designated accounts.”
The president also thanked all beneficiaries for their patience and understanding at these trying times and finally wish FIFA President, Gianni Infantino God’s speed as he recovers.
