The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has justified its decision to terminate the Ugborodo stadium construction contract after paying contractor Monimichelle Sports nearly $500,000. NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi stated the contractor repeatedly missed deadlines despite warnings.
“We gave them two weeks to resume work and justify the payments received,” Sanusi explained. “FIFA, which provided the funds, guided this decision. The contractor didn’t return to site, forcing termination.”
Project Background and Delays
The Ugborodo mini-stadium in Delta State is a FIFA Forward Programme project. Valued at $1.2 million, it was designed as a twin facility to the completed stadium in Birnin Kebbi. While the Kebbi stadium has been operational for two years, Ugborodo’s construction remains incomplete with minimal progress.
Contractor Disputes Termination Legality
Monimichelle Sports CEO Ebi Egbe rejected the NFF’s decision as unlawful. The company has initiated legal proceedings challenging the “illegal termination” and seeking ₦10 billion in damages.
“Monimichelle refuses to enable corruption in Nigerian football,” Egbe declared. “We’re suing for contract termination without due process and for defamation.”
Payment Details Revealed
Harrison Jalla of the Professional Footballers Association confirmed two payments to Monimichelle: $262,116.28 in October 2020 and $306,045.52 in May 2021, totaling approximately $568,000. These transactions have intensified scrutiny over FIFA fund management in Nigeria.
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