No Nigerian referee was included in CAF’s official list of match officials forAFCON 2025 in Morocco. Neither assistant referees nor VAR officials from Nigeria were listed.
Despite Nigeria’s long-standing prominence in African football, the country was completely absent from the tournament’s officiating roster. This absence drew criticism from fans, analysts, and sports stakeholders across the nation. This marks another year in which Nigerian officials have been represented in Africa’s football competition.
CAF maintains that referee choice is based on strict fitness tests, technical performance, and recent officiating experience. Sources show that some Nigerian referees took part in a pre-tournament program but did not meet the final standards required for AFCON appointments.
The exclusion has reignited discussions about the state of referee development in Nigeria. Observers argue that improved training is necessary. Better exposure to international matches is also crucial. Additionally, investment in officiating infrastructure is needed to restore Nigeria’s presence on the continental stage
“Nigeria has always been a powerhouse in African football,” one analyst said. “Not having a single official at AFCON sends the wrong message about our refereeing standards and international competitiveness.”
Attention turns to the next cycle of CAF competitions. Nigerian referees need to show readiness and professionalism. The country hopes to reclaim its place among Africa’s top officials. This development serves as a wake-up call for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and referee development bodies. They need to focus on training, mentorship, and exposure. They must guarantee that future tournaments show the country’s footballing influence not just on the pitch, but also in officiating.
Discover more from Urhobo Daily
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
