Gusau pledges support as referees body enforces strict standards, sanctions

By Tosin Omojola

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musaes Gusau, on Wednesday pledged full support for efforts by the new executive team of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA) to reform and sanitize refereeing in the country.

Gusau made the commitment when the NRA leadership paid him a condolence visit at the NFF Secretariat in Abuja following the death of the Head of the NFF Refereeing Unit and NRA President, Hon. Sani Zubair.

He stressed the need for firm decisions on key issues such as age limits, computer literacy, and academic qualifications for referees, noting that reforms in these areas are critical to improving officiating standards.

“I strongly believe that any serious recruitment drive should not accommodate individuals above a certain age. We may even need to start recruiting from the junior secondary school level. Bringing in individuals above 14 years may not be productive, considering the time required to progress to Grade 1 and eventually FIFA level,” Gusau said.

He also highlighted the importance of digital competence in modern officiating, pointing out that referees must be equipped to meet evolving professional demands.

“Referees today are required to file detailed reports, often running into several pages. Without computer literacy, it will be difficult to cope. While the NFF is ready to provide support, these reforms must be adopted formally by the referees’ Congress,” he added.

The NFF president, who also serves as WAFU B President, further disclosed plans to train at least 10 Nigerian referees on the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology before the end of the year. He also commiserated with the NRA over the loss of Zubair, describing him as a dedicated professional who served Nigerian football with integrity and distinction.

In his remarks, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi (MON), urged the new NRA leadership to take decisive action against recurring cases of poor officiating in the domestic league, while NRA Acting President, Sir Kelechi Mejuobi, assured that the new executive would intensify efforts to restore credibility and enforce strict sanctions against unethical conduct.

Also present at the meeting were former NRA President, Alhaji Ahmed Maude; NRA Vice Presidents, Engr. Emmanuel Imiere and Alhaji Aminu Umar Fagge; Chairman of Chairmen, Alhaji Aminu Mammaga; Deputy Secretary General, Col. N. C. Achikasim; FCT Referees Council officials, Abraham Zakowi and Victor Ijeremen; as well as zonal coordinators Nasiru Ibrahim and Tasiu Adamu.