Former president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has denied influencing the appointment of Finidi George as the head coach of the Super Eagles.
Despite expressing his preference for Finidi, Pinnick clarified that he did not interfere in the NFF’s decision-making process regarding the coaching position. Finidi ultimately secured the role over Emmanuel Amuneke.
Pinnick, who currently serves on the FIFA council, emphasized his positive relationship with NFF president Ibrahim Gusau. He stated that Nigerians tend to disrupt harmony in Nigerian football and suggested that his synergy with Gusau should not be misinterpreted as him imposing his choices.
“The president (Ibrahim Gusau) is very capable, always working round the clock,” Pinnick told Lagos Talks FM.
“What I observed is that Nigerians don’t like to see peace in Nigerian football, they don’t like synergy.
“If I have a good synergy with my successor, I don’t think there’s any reason to say that I’m the one that chose Finidi George.
“Why should I be? Gusau was a key member in (Aminu) Maigari’s regime. Then in my own regime, he was very cardinal.
“He understands the dynamics, the theatrics, the politics, the game. And he’s an accountant, very prudent, so people should not just say things.”