The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed reports suggesting an impending termination of its kit sponsorship deal with sportswear manufacturer Nike, clarifying that discussions are ongoing for an improved agreement.
The federation’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, described the reports as misleading, stressing that the NFF is not seeking to end the partnership but is instead engaged in negotiations over a renewal with better terms.
According to Olajire, the insinuation that the federation is planning to completely sever ties with Nike is incorrect.
“We are currently in discussions with Nike regarding our kit situation,” Olajire said in response to an enquiry from SportsUnlimited.ng.
He added that the talks are centred on securing improved conditions that better align with the federation’s expectations.
“The NFF is insisting on improvements in certain conditions and expectations,” Olajire stated.
The clarification puts to rest speculation surrounding the future of the long-standing partnership between the NFF and Nike, with both parties now focused on reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.
