Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has narrowly lost his seat in the FIFA Council. Pinnick secured 28 votes, just one short of the 29 votes obtained by Souleiman Hassan Waberi of Djibouti, who claimed the fifth and final spot on the council.

The election results showed Fouzi Lekjaa topping the list with 49 votes, followed by Hani Abou Rida and Djibrilla Hima Hamidou, who both garnered 35 votes. Ahmed Yahya also secured a spot with 29 votes, tying with Souleiman Waberi. Andrew Kamanga and Yacine Diallo trailed behind with 19 and 18 votes, respectively.

Pinnick’s loss marks the end of his tenure on the FIFA Council, which he initially secured in 2021. During his time on the council, Pinnick played a key role in shaping the future of African football. Despite his narrow defeat, Pinnick’s contributions to the sport will undoubtedly be remembered.