‘I am more than fulfilled,’ Pinnick reacts to FIFA election loss

By Olaolu Joseph

Despite failing to retain his seat in the FIFA Council, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Amaju Melvin Pinnick says he remains fulfilled.

Pinnick narrowly lost his bid for re-election at the FIFA Council polls held on Wednesday in Cairo, Egypt. However, he described his journey in football administration as an achievement he will always cherish.

“When I started 26 years ago as a volunteer at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Nigeria, I never dreamed of reaching these heights. I never thought I could become the number one football administrator in Nigeria, serve for eight years, play key roles in African football, and mingle with the world’s top football leaders,” he said.

Acknowledging the competitive nature of football politics, Pinnick said he campaigned extensively, traveling to over 30 countries. “Hours before the election, I was sure of close to 40 votes, but politics happened. I am not bitter—just grateful for everyone who supported my push.”

He expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian government, as well as FIFA President Gianni Infantino, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, and NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau for their support.

“I am moved to tears by President Tinubu’s support from the moment he publicly endorsed my candidature. I also cherish my relationship with Gianni (Infantino) and appreciate his sincerity,” Pinnick stated.

Reflecting on his unexpected rise in football administration, he recalled, “I was only meant to head the NFF electoral committee in 2014, but fate catapulted me to the presidency, and I became the youngest Nigerian in FIFA’s supreme council.”

Despite the outcome, Pinnick reiterated his gratitude, stating, “Football has given me more than I ever imagined, and I am more than fulfilled.”