Gusau denies clash with Morocco FA boss
Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Ibrahim Gusau has dismissed reports claiming he was involved in a heated confrontation with Moroccan FA president Fouzi Lekjaa following Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 semi-final defeat in Rabat.
The reports, which circulated widely on social media after Nigeria’s loss to hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, alleged that Gusau clashed with the CAF vice-president over officiating decisions. The NFF chief has described the claims as false and without foundation.
NFF president rejects allegations
Speaking through a statement released by the federation’s communications department, Gusau said no such incident took place and insisted relations between both football bodies remain cordial.
“I really don’t know where the report is coming from,” Gusau said. “Nigeria and Morocco have very cordial relationships in football and even at the level of government. Personally, I have always had a good relationship with Mr Lekjaa.”
He stressed that there was no confrontation, argument or exchange of words with the Moroccan FA president at any point before or after the match.
No comments on officiating
Gusau also rejected claims that he criticised match officials, a key element of the reported dispute. According to him, he made his position clear before the game and avoided any post-match remarks.
“Before the match, I publicly made it known that the NFF was not apprehensive about the officiating,” he explained.
“After the match, I made no comments whatsoever. I am totally bemused at where the reporter got his story that Mr Lekjaa and myself engaged in a shouting match because of my comments on the officiating.”
Praise for AFCON organisers
Despite the controversy that followed the semi-final, Gusau adopted a conciliatory tone and praised Morocco and CAF for the organisation of the tournament.
“As far as the NFF is concerned, we only have praises for the Morocco Football Federation, the Local Organising Committee, the Government of Morocco and the Confederation of African Football for organising a very successful AFCON,” he said.
He added that the tournament lived up to expectations and would be remembered as one of the most impressive editions of Africa’s premier football competition.
