Sports
Zubairu Lauds FIFA, NFF For Training Approval
… As Nigerian referees eye CAF roles
Joel Ajayi
President of the Nigeria Referees Association and Head of the Referees Unit at the Nigeria Football Federation ,NFF, Subairu Sani, has applauded FIFA and the NFF for organizing the first-ever FIFA-sanctioned physical and technical instructors’ course for Nigerian referees.
He believes the program marks a major step forward in positioning Nigerian referees for future roles in Confederation of African Football ,CAF, matches.
Speaking in Abuja during the groundbreaking training session at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Sani expressed optimism about the impact of the initiative. The course, held under the 2025 FIFA Member Association ,MA, Development Programme, is designed for instructors and young talent referees and is the first of its kind in Nigeria.
“This programmes is critical for the development of refereeing in Nigeria and football in general. It’s the first time we’re having a course specifically tailored for both physical and technical instructors. These instructors are like coaches; they are being trained so they can, in turn, train referees across the country”, Sani explained.
He emphasized that the course would serve as a foundation for building a sustainable and professional referee development system in Nigeria. “By training the trainers, we are creating a ripple effect that will reach referees at every level. This will enhance their understanding and implementation of the laws of the game and open doors for them on the international stage”.
Sani, a retired FIFA referee himself, acknowledged that Nigerian match officials have yet to fully attain the recognition and appointments they deserve globally. However, he remains hopeful.
“Refereeing is a gradual process it’s not something you jump into and expect immediate results. Just like education, you move from one level to the next. This course is the beginning of that journey for many of our officials”, he said.
He also expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the NFF and FIFA for their support and vision. “This initiative shows that there is a commitment at the highest levels to elevate Nigerian refereeing. With continued training and support, I’m confident that our referees will soon be fixtures at major international tournaments”.
The ongoing training brings together experienced instructors and emerging referee talents and is expected to significantly enhance the technical and physical capabilities of match officials in Nigeria.
Sports
NVBF President, Engr Nimrod Urges Families to Embrace Healthy Living at HOBA Novelty Sports
Joel Ajayi
President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, has called on Nigerian families to adopt healthy living habits through regular participation in sporting and fitness activities.
Nimrod made the call on Sunday during the third edition of the Hoba Development Association, Abuja Chapter, novelty sports event held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
He noted that physical activities such as sports are vital to fostering family bonds, community interaction, and overall well-being.
“The rate of health-related incidents such as slumping is increasing, but regular exercise helps improve the health of both parents and children,” he said. “Events like this bring families together, allowing parents and children to interact and know each other better.”
Also speaking, the stand-in Chairman of the Hoba Community, Barrister Nathan Naandeti, highlighted the significance of the annual novelty games, describing them as a unifying platform for members of the community.
“It’s something we do every year to promote unity, togetherness, and fitness among our people. Sports is part of who we are,” he stated.
Men, women, and children from the Hoba community participated in various sporting activities, including volleyball, badminton, football, and aerobics—all aimed at encouraging relaxation, fitness, and bonding among families.
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