NPFL to honour Late Tade Azeez

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

In memory of the late Otunba Tade Azeez, former President of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA), players and officials of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will observe a minute of silence prior to the commencement of the remaining Matchday 35 fixtures this weekend.

Azeez passed away on Friday afternoon after a brief, undisclosed illness.

Although one of the Matchday 35 fixtures between Kano Pillars and Rivers United had already taken place before the announcement of his death, NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi stated, “We have instructed that a minute of silence be observed before the remaining fixtures on Saturday and Sunday.”

Azeez, who previously served as Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LAFA), was a distinguished referee who earned a FIFA badge before retiring and subsequently leading the Referees Association.

Owumi expressed that the loss of this football leader is a significant blow to the entire football community, acknowledging Azeez’s invaluable contributions to the development of the league and club football over the years, from his beginnings as a referee to his leadership role as NRA President.

“The NPFL will greatly miss the stabilizing influence he provided during challenging fixtures,” Owumi lamented.

He also conveyed his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late football administrator.