‘Waste of time’ – Ex-NFF chief urges Nigeria to drop DR Congo appeal after FIFA rejection

Ahmed Sani Toro, former General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation has slammed Nigeria’s ongoing protest against DR Congo national team, describing it as a futile exercise.

His comments follow FIFA’s decision to dismiss the NFF’s initial petition over alleged use of ineligible players.

Toro dismisses appeal as ‘waste of time’

The controversy stems from the Super Eagles’ penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo after a 1-1 draw in a crucial World Cup playoff match in Morocco.

Following the loss, the Super Eagles lodged a complaint, alleging irregularities in the citizenship status of some Congolese players and claiming FIFA had been misled during registration.

However, FIFA upheld the result and confirmed DR Congo’s progression, effectively shutting down Nigeria’s protest.

Toro has now backed that decision, insisting Nigeria has no legal or administrative grounds to continue the case.

“It is a waste of time and energy. There is no way Nigeria can get a favourable verdict,” he said, urging the Federal Government to intervene and halt the appeal process.

Citizenship argument undermines NFF case

Toro further argued that issues of nationality fall strictly under the jurisdiction of sovereign governments, not football authorities.

According to him, expecting FIFA to overturn a decision tied to player eligibility already cleared through official processes is unrealistic and strategically flawed.

NFF presses on despite criticism

Despite mounting criticism, the NFF has opted to proceed with an appeal, maintaining that irregularities in documentation still warrant further review.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi confirmed that the federation is dissatisfied with the ruling and has already initiated the next legal step.

The outcome of the appeal remains pending, but it represents Nigeria’s final opportunity to challenge the decision and revive any remaining qualification prospects.