The NFF has faced renewed scrutiny over claims circulating on social media that it misused FIFA Forward 2.0 Programme funds, reportedly allocated for the construction of two mini-stadiums valued at $1.2 million each. The federation has consistently denied any wrongdoing, but public debate over the issue has continued.
Speaking in an interview with Arise TV, Pinnick — who served as NFF president from 2014 to 2022, the period during which the FIFA grants were received — defended the integrity of the football institution and urged Nigerians to avoid what he described as self-damaging narratives.
“We should stop maligning institutions in Nigeria. I’m just appealing because it doesn’t make us look good on the international scene,” Pinnick said. “It de-markets this country. We just lost our bid to host the Commonwealth Games. Whenever we want to host any tournament, Nigeria is almost a red flag because we de-market this country by the minute.”
Pinnick added that constructive patriotism is needed to help restore the country’s global standing.
“If the government is even doing something good, I think we should complement them, work with them and pray for them. We don’t have any other country. Nigeria is the sweetest and the best country on this continent,” he said.
Expressing frustration over what he called the “toxicity, bitterness, and animosity” in public discourse, Pinnick said the atmosphere has discouraged him and other professionals from engaging with government institutions.
“When I travel abroad, we’re double-checked simply because we’re Nigerians. I don’t want to travel anymore,” he lamented.
The former NFF boss also touched on the Super Eagles’ preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, noting that while he remains optimistic about Nigeria’s qualification chances, he fears that negative perceptions could affect fans and logistics.
“We’ll be at the World Cup by God’s grace, but how many people can get an American visa in Nigeria? I’m not holding fault for the federation, but it’s on us to say the truth when we see fit,” he added.
Pinnick’s comments come amid ongoing debate about transparency in Nigerian sports administration and its impact on the nation’s ability to host major international tournaments.