FIFA Appoints Ilorin-born A.U. Mustapha to Global Anti-Racism Committee

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has named Ilorin-born Senior Advocate of Nigeria, A.U. Mustapha, as a member of its Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee.

Comprising 22 distinguished representatives from around the world, the committee is responsible for tackling issues of racism and discrimination across football associations, clubs, and federations under FIFA’s authority.

With over 30 years of experience in legal practice, Mustapha is widely regarded as one of Africa’s foremost sports lawyers, particularly in football administration and regulation.

He previously served as President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Committee from 2018 to 2023 — a period praised for its fairness and transparency. Earlier, in 2010, he chaired the NFF Elections Committee, which was commended for conducting one of the most credible elections in the federation’s history.

FIFA’s Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee plays a vital role in advancing diversity, equality, and inclusion within global football — key pillars of FIFA’s commitment to fairness and respect for human rights in the sport.

A.U. Mustapha’s selection came on the recommendation of the NFF, which highlighted his integrity and exceptional contributions to sports law and governance.

The appointment, confirmed through a letter to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) by FIFA’s Secretary-General, Mattias Grafström, grants Mustapha a four-year term on the prestigious international body.

Ghana’s Kurt Okraku will serve as Chairperson of the committee, with Bermuda’s Mark Wade as Deputy Chairperson, while the FIFA Council is represented by Mariano Araneta from the Philippines.

Other members include Lorrelle Abrams (British Virgin Islands), Irene Aguiar (Spain), Rivaldo Antonio (Guinea-Bissau), and Bennett Bailey (South Africa).

In addition to his legal career, Mustapha has made personal contributions to sports development in Kwara State, including sponsoring the re-turfing of the Kwara State Stadium and equipping the Kwara State Football Association Secretariat.

More recently, he was appointed Chairman of the Nigeria Sports Commission’s Elections Appeal Committee, reinforcing his reputation as a trusted figure in sports administration.