By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Sierra Leone: A damning report released by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Transition Committee on Friday, September 19, 2025, has exposed deep-rooted financial mismanagement threatening the integrity and future of football governance in the country.
Presented at the Miatta Conference Hall, the report, compiled in August at the SLFA Secretariat in Kingtom, revealed unaccounted millions, unfulfilled contracts, and systemic failures in financial oversight that jeopardize SLFA’s compliance with FIFA and CAF standards.
“These figures expose systemic weaknesses in financial oversight that must be addressed urgently,” said Dr. Isaac Massaquoi, Chairman of the Transition Committee, during the presentation.
Among the most alarming findings:
- NLe 720 Million Government Grant Unaccounted: In 2019, SLFA withdrew funds from the FA Cup special account without government approval. The money was never refunded.
- US$100,000 Coaster Bus Contract Shortfall: Only two of four buses paid for were delivered by Tubanda Company Limited.
- US$527,000 Technical Centre Delays: Despite near-complete payment to Lexons Construction Enterprise, the project remains unfinished past its December 2024 deadline.
- US$50,000 Misallocated FIFA Training Funds: Annual allocations meant for professional development were diverted, undermining FIFA’s requirement of ten courses per year.
- 10,820 Undistributed Footballs and Dormant School Program Funds: Resources meant for youth development remain idle since 2023.
Dr. Massaquoi further highlighted chronic operational inefficiencies, including unlicensed buses, incomplete bike distributions, and underutilized hostels. He warned that SLFA’s failure to meet the GEWE Act’s 30% female workforce requirement — with over 85% male staff — could trigger sanctions.
The committee, which includes Hon. Sirajin Rollings-Kamara, Aruna Mans-Davies, George Moore, Isha Norwoh Bawoh Esq., and Tanu Jalloh, has recommended sweeping reforms: monthly financial reconciliations, full audits, payroll cleanup, and a verified asset register. A full investigation into contract execution and payment flows — especially concerning the Technical Centre — is also urged.
“Funding from FIFA and CAF is at risk if we don’t address these financial lapses now,” Dr. Massaquoi warned.
To restore accountability, the committee proposed the creation of a Project Management Unit with clear milestones and quarterly financial reporting. These steps, they say, are essential to securing Sierra Leone’s football future and unlocking vital international support.
Reacting to the findings, SLFA Vice President I, Alie Badara Tarawallie, commended the committee’s work and pledged full cooperation. “I must commend the efforts made so far,” he said. “The recommendations will be carefully acted upon for the best of Sierra Leone.”
The report has sent shockwaves through the football community, raising urgent questions about governance, transparency, and the future of the sport in Sierra Leone.