Dikko: Nigeria Awaits FIFA Verdict on DR Congo Eligibility Case
Nigeria’s petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo over the alleged fielding of ineligible players in their African playoff clash for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is still under consideration, according to National Sports Commission Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko.
Speaking to The Guardian, Dikko stressed that FIFA has not yet delivered its final verdict on the matter, despite DR Congo’s inclusion in the official list of six nations set to compete in the inter-confederation playoff tournament in Mexico.
He explained that the presence of DR Congo in the fixtures does not automatically mean Nigeria’s case has been dismissed, noting that FIFA has a formal process for communicating sensitive decisions to the parties involved.
‘As far as we know, FIFA is yet to give its verdict,’ Dikko said. ‘The fact that DR Congo appears among the six nations to compete for the final two spots in the playoff is not enough to jump to the conclusion that FIFA has thrown out Nigeria’s petition. We are very hopeful that Nigeria will win the eligibility case, and the Super Eagles will proceed to play in the playoff, and possibly make the World Cup party.’
Dikko urged Nigerians to remain calm and patient as the process unfolds, emphasizing that the final word rests with FIFA. The global body confirmed Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname as the six teams for the playoff, but Nigeria’s fate hinges on the outcome of the eligibility dispute.
