NFF threatens referees with 10-year ban over match-fixing concerns
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a stern warning to referees and stakeholders across all levels of the domestic game, declaring zero tolerance for match manipulation and unethical conduct.
As the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), and Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) enter critical phases—and with the Nationwide League One (NLO) kicking off on Wednesday, April 23, 2025—the NFF has voiced serious concerns over possible external attempts to influence officiating.
According to a statement signed by Mohammed Ameenu, Secretary of the NFF Refereeing Committee, the Federation has set up a dedicated monitoring committee with members stationed at all match venues. The committee is tasked with independently reporting any violations of the Laws of the Game or behavior that could damage the reputation of Nigerian football.
To ensure transparency, the NFF also announced that most matches will be streamed live, allowing fans and analysts to closely observe refereeing decisions.
“All referees appointed for matches are hereby instructed to uphold the principles of equity, fairness, and justice,” the statement read. It further warned that any official found guilty of misconduct could face a minimum 10-year ban from football, along with possible prosecution by the State Security Services for match-fixing offenses.
The directive serves as both a warning and a call to action as the NFF works to improve officiating standards and restore public confidence in the leagues.
“You are all warned ahead of time,” the Federation concluded, emphasizing its commitment to clean and fair competition.
