The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested one Osagie Destiny Etinosa over an alleged ₦11 million football transfer scam, prompting a swift response from the Nigeria FIFA-Licensed Football Agents Association, that has disowned the suspect.
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In a press release signed by its president, Prince Sodeke Michael, the association categorically stated that Etinosa is not a licensed football agent and does not appear on the official FIFA Agents Register.
“He is not one of us. He is not licensed, not recognized, and not authorized to operate within the global football transfer system as a football agent,” the statement read.
The body also commended the EFCC for its swift intervention, describing the action as crucial in safeguarding young Nigerian footballers from exploitation.
Rising Concern Over Fake Agents
The association expressed concern over the growing trend of unlicensed individuals posing as agents, particularly on social media platforms.
According to the statement, these fraudulent actors often lure unsuspecting players with false promises of overseas trials or professional contracts.
Victims are typically asked to make large upfront payments, after which the perpetrators disappear.
n some cases, players are taken abroad and abandoned without support or legitimate opportunities.
Issuing a strong warning to parents, players, guardians, and youth coaches, the association urged strict verification of any individual claiming to be a football agent.
“If an agent is not on the FIFA platform, do not engage. It’s that simple,” the statement emphasized.
The public was advised to confirm agents through FIFA’s official platform at agents.fifa.org by searching names and requesting the FIFA-issued QR code for authentication.
Identifying Licensed Agents
The association highlighted key attributes of legitimate FIFA-licensed agents, noting that they:
▪️Are officially registered and verifiable on FIFA’s agent platform
▪️Operate with formal, transparent contracts
Do not guarantee trials or contracts without due process
▪️Conduct their activities in compliance with established regulations
Reaffirming its commitment to sanitizing the football ecosystem in Nigeria, the association stressed the need for vigilance to protect aspiring talents.
“The dreams of our young players are valid, but they must be protected from fraudsters hiding behind football ambitions,” the statement concluded.
