The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the resignation of the current leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The group said Nigerian football needs experienced football professionals to take leading roles in the administration of the game.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, on Thursday, HURIWA said years of poor leadership and political interference had affected the development of Nigerian football.
It called for greater roles for former internationals and respected football administrators, including Michael Emenalo, Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha, Segun Odegbami and Ahmed Musa.
HURIWA also urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) to consider declaring a state of emergency in Nigerian football and work with FIFA on reforms to improve the administration of the game.
The group said Nigeria’s recent struggles in international football showed the need for urgent reforms.
“This is no longer just about missing football tournaments. It is about the gradual destruction of a national institution that has given Nigerians pride, unity and happiness for generations,” HURIWA said.
The association welcomed Okocha’s recent call for fresh ideas and a new structure in Nigerian football, saying his concerns should be considered by the government and other stakeholders.
HURIWA warned that setting up more committees without addressing the major problems in football administration would not resolve the crisis.
The group called for greater transparency in the management of football resources, stronger grassroots development and better support for the national teams.
It also urged former players, coaches, administrators and other stakeholders to support efforts to reform Nigerian football.