Amaju Pinnick Claims He Had 40 Votes in the Bag, but “Politics” Had Other Plans

March 12 20:12 2025 by The Ajasa News Print This Article

Former NFF President Amaju Melvin Pinnick has opened up about his shocking loss at the FIFA elections, attributing it to the “bad side of politics.”

Despite having assurances of 40 votes just hours before the election, Pinnick ultimately lost his bid for a FIFA position.

However, he’s taking the high road, stating that he bears no grudge against anyone and is instead grateful for how far God has brought him in the world of football.

“When I started out 26 years ago, as a volunteer at the FIFA U20 World Cup that Nigeria hosted, I never dreamed of reaching these heights. Never thought I could become the number one administrator of football in Nigeria (and for eight years for that matter), play key roles in African football and easily mingle with the world’s top football governors. I have only gratitude to give to the Almighty God, to those who have helped me one way or the other and to all those I have met on my way.

“Football politics is fierce, but I am proud to have fought a good fight. I campaigned hard; travelled to more than 30 countries. Hours before the election, I was sure of close to 40 votes. But politics happened. I am not bitter about anything, just full of gratitude to everyone who supported my push.”

The former NFF President, who also served as First Vice President of CAF between 2018 and 2019, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a person and the Government of Nigeria as a whole, as well as FIFA supremo Gianni Infantino, NSC boss Shehu Dikko, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau and those he called friends in government and the corporate world.

“I am drawn to tears by the support of President Tinubu, right from the time he publicly endorsed my candidature. I am most grateful and do not take anything for granted. I cherish my relationship with Gianni (Infantino) and appreciate his sincerity. I thank the National Sports Commission led by Shehu Dikko. The NFF, particularly Ibrahim Musa Gusau, were amazing in their push. Kudos also to my friends in government and the corporate world.

“I was to be no more than the head of NFF electoral committee back in 2014, but fate catapulted me to the presidency and I became the youngest-ever Nigerian in world football’s supreme council. I am more than fulfilled.”