The Nigeria Football Federation has begun a new phase of leadership following a major shake-up that has seen Emmanuel Ikpeme take over as interim General Secretary.

Ikpeme, who previously served as Deputy General Secretary, was selected for the temporary position after the National Sports Commission endorsed his appointment.

The development followed the resignation of several senior NFF officials on Thursday.

Alongside Ikpeme, former NFF Director of Media and Communications Ademola Olajire has been appointed interim Deputy General Secretary.

Their appointments are expected to provide administrative continuity while the federation deals with the leadership changes.

The changes come after NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s Executive Committee stepped down from their respective positions.

The leadership crisis follows growing pressure surrounding Nigeria’s recent performances in international competitions.

The Super Falcons suffered a disappointing campaign at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where they were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Cameroon.

Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup has added to concerns surrounding the country’s football administration.

The tournament is scheduled to take place in Brazil.

The national youth teams have also experienced setbacks.

The Flying Eagles failed to secure qualification for the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Burkina Faso in the final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship.

The latest appointments therefore come at a crucial period for Nigerian football, with the federation facing the task of restoring stability following the departure of its top officials.

Ikpeme and Olajire will now be expected to manage the federation’s administrative responsibilities during the interim period.

Their immediate challenge will be to ensure that the day-to-day operations of the NFF continue without disruption as the organisation works through its current transition.

The leadership changes could also lead to renewed scrutiny of the federation’s direction, particularly after a series of disappointing results involving both the senior women’s team and the country’s youth football programme.

With key positions now occupied on an interim basis, attention will turn to the next steps in determining the NFF’s permanent leadership structure and restoring confidence in the administration of Nigerian football.