By Admin 
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reaffirmed the fairness of the draw for the 2025 President Federation Cup, emphasizing that the process was conducted in line with international best practices.
Speaking on Saturday, NFF Executive Committee member and Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL), Mr. George Aluo, described recent criticisms surrounding some match venues — particularly for the quarter-final fixtures — as “ill-conceived and unfortunate.”
According to the official fixtures released by the NFF, Abakaliki FC will face Nasarawa United in Benin City, Wikki Tourists will take on Ikorodu City at Bwari, Abuja, Akwa United will clash with Kwara United in Enugu, while Rangers International battle Plateau United at the Area 3 Stadium in Abuja. All matches are scheduled for May 3rd, with semi-final places up for grabs.
However, concerns have emerged on social media regarding the selection of Bwari, Abuja as the venue for the Wikki Tourists vs Ikorodu City match, with some alleging that the choice could favor the Bauchi-based Wikki Tourists.
Dismissing these claims, Aluo urged stakeholders and the media to exercise greater understanding and responsibility.
“Some of our media men need better education. Newsmen should not conduct themselves like fans out there on the streets,” he said. “In the English FA Cup, it is normal for a team like Arsenal to host Manchester United at home. Here in Nigeria, we have had situations like Abiola Babes hosting Ranchers Bees in Lagos, with no complaints about proximity. Rangers even hosted Kano Pillars in Asaba despite the closeness to Enugu.”
Aluo stressed that the focus should remain on fair officiating rather than venue-related sentiments, highlighting that other matchups, such as Akwa United playing Kwara United in nearby Enugu, have not sparked similar criticism.
He further praised NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, for his impartial leadership, emphasizing that the federation is committed to transparency and the growth of Nigerian football.
“We should promote initiatives that will advance our football and attract corporate support,” Aluo added, noting that GTI, partners of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), are also backing the President Federation Cup. “People should not inject unnecessary sentiments into a competition we are working hard to elevate.”
The NFF hopes that with continued support from stakeholders and the public, the President Federation Cup will become a stronger platform for nurturing football excellence in the country.