Today, Tuesday 18th August 2026, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau emerged as the winner of the Football Infrastructure ICON award.
The award was presented by the Emir of Bida and Etsu Nupe, His Royal Highness Brigadier General Yahaya Abubakar (Rtd), CFR, who was represented by the Royal Father of the Day, Etsu Nupe/Andoma of Doma, Alhaji Aliyu Ogo‑Onawo.
Reacting to the honour, Gusau delivered this statement:
This Award is not just an honour, it is a renewed call to service and a reminder of the responsibility we carry to build a stronger, more successful and more sustainable future for Nigerian football.
I remain fully committed to the growth of football in Nigeria , from strengthening our grassroots and youth development programmes to creating greater opportunities for our players, coaches, administrators and other stakeholders. Our football has immense talent and potential, and we must continue to build systems that allow potential to flourish on the national and international stage.
With humility, determination and the support of the entire football family, we will keep working to make Nigerian football a source of pride, opportunity and inspiration for generations to come.
My sincere appreciation to Blueprint Newspapers for this honour and for recognising the collective efforts of everyone to move Nigerian football forward.
Softfootball notes that Gusau has faced significant criticism due to Nigeria’s poor performances in 2025 and 2026, including:
- Super Eagles failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Super Falcons getting knocked out in the 2026 WAFCON
- Super Falcons failing to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup
