Fresh details have emerged on Nigeria’s push to return to the race for the 2026 World Cup.
The update followed a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa. Sports officials briefed the President on the situation.
The focus was Nigeria’s unresolved case before world football authorities.
Nevertheless, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, said Nigeria’s fate is no longer on the pitch.
According to him, the matter now rests with the legal processes within FIFA. He explained that the competitive aspect has ended, but the legal review continues.
Dikko spoke after meeting Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Thursday.
He confirmed that the case submitted by the Nigeria Football Federation is still under consideration.
The protest centres on allegations that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the African play-off final.
He said: “World Cup is a closed chapter for us competitively, but the legal matter is pending.
“The relevant independent bodies within FIFA will decide.”
Despite the uncertainty, Dikko struck a hopeful tone. He said there is confidence within the sports leadership that Nigeria could yet receive a favourable outcome.
The Sports Commission chair added that officials are optimistic about the possible reinstatement of the Super Eagles for the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March.
If successful, such a decision would reopen Nigeria’s pathway to the 2026 World Cup.
Moreover, sports authorities say they are prepared to act swiftly should FIFA rule in Nigeria’s favour.