Sports

NFF Focuses on Revamping Domestic League, Emphasizes Referee Development

Published

2 years ago

January 20, 2025

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, has outlined bold measures undertaken by his administration to improve the country’s domestic league, with a particular focus on referee development.

Speaking on the federation’s achievements so far on the league, Gusau said, “We tried to come up with a policy to ensure we improve our domestic league. It took us time to address barriers that previously hindered proper organization.”

One of the key reforms has been addressing long-standing grievances among match officials, including delayed payments and inadequate training. Gusau emphasized the crucial role referees play in ensuring the league’s credibility and fairness, stating, “No matter how good your teams are, if the referees are not prepared to do the right thing, you end up frustrated.”

To address this, the NFF has introduced training programs and brought in fresh talent, with 12 referees under the age of 20 now officiating in the Premier League. Gusau praised their performance, noting that no complaints have been received about the young referees, adding, “We must encourage our young people because that’s the only way to solve the issues Nigerians are complaining about.”

The NFF is also determined to improve Nigeria’s representation at international tournaments. Gusau expressed disappointment that only one Nigerian referee made the list for the upcoming CHAN attributing it to a lack of preparation. However, he is optimistic that the introduction of talented young referees into the league will elevate Nigeria’s presence in global football officiating in the coming years.

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Sports

Vipers VC celebrate captain Esther Mbah on birthday

Published

58 mins ago

November 14, 2026

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

Vipers Volleyball Club have felicitated with their captain, Esther Mbah on the occasion of her birthday.

In a statement signed by the Vipers VC Team Manager, Suraj Abiodun Jabar; the club described Mbah as a leader who has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the court.

The statement also praised the Nigerian international for her valuable contributions to the club.

The statement mentioned her role in guiding Vipers to a second-place finish at the 2026 CAVB Zone 3 Club Championship in Ghana.

It read: “The management of Vipers Volleyball Club wants to celebrate Esther Mbah on the occasion of her birthday.

“She has been an asset to Vipers since joining the club, demonstrating outstanding commitment, dedication and leadership.

“Her contributions to the growth and success of the team have been invaluable.

“We appreciate her efforts, professionalism and the positive influence she continues to have on her teammates. We wish her more successful years ahead, good health and greater achievements.”

The club concluded its birthday message by wishing the experienced player continued success as she leads the team towards achieving more honours.

Beyond her achievements at club level, Mbah won a bronze medal for Nigeria at the 2024 African Games in Ghana, further establishing herself as one of the country’s accomplished volleyball players.

She has also secured qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, adding another milestone to her growing career.

In their separate messages, board members of Nigeria Volleyball Federation, James Datuhun and Chinedu Onikeku (OLY) as well as Coordinator of Vipers VC, Samuel Onikeku wished the Nigeria international a glamorous birthday.

They hailed Esther Mbah for exhibiting a high level of leadership trait since joining the team.

The stakeholders prayed for good health and ultimately success as she prepares for the Beach Volleyball event at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

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