Latest News
NFRA Intensifies Referee Development as FIFA Course Trains Next Generation of Nigerian Officials
The Acting President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association (NFRA), Kelechi Mejuobi, has underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacity of Nigerian referees through the FIFA Member Association Course currently underway at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Speaking on NTA AM Sports, Mejuobi described the programme as a critical step in preparing young referees and beach soccer officials for higher levels of competition.
According to him, the course is designed to ensure that referees who take charge of matches are properly trained and equipped with the necessary skills to progress in the profession.
“This is a FIFA Member Association course for young talent referees and beach soccer referees. It targets officials who have attained Grade One status and are currently officiating in leagues such as the National League structures and the women’s league,” he said.
Mejuobi explained that the initiative is being implemented through a partnership between the NFRA and the Nigeria Football Federation, with support from FIFA.
He described the programme as a capacity-building workshop aimed at enhancing the technical and professional standards of Nigerian referees.
A key aspect of the training, he noted, is ensuring that participants meet strict physical and medical fitness requirements before advancing to classroom and field sessions.
“Referees must first pass physical fitness assessments and be certified fit by medical professionals before proceeding to the next stages of training,” he said.
The course is being supervised by FIFA-appointed experts, including international physical fitness instructors responsible for conducting and monitoring fitness tests and fieldwork activities.
Mejuobi also highlighted the international standards expected of referees, citing the recent invitation extended to two Nigerian female officials for preparations ahead of the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
He said participation in such programmes ensures Nigerian referees remain aligned with global officiating requirements.
Addressing concerns over health conditions such as malaria and high blood pressure, Mejuobi stated that participants were given adequate notice to prepare for the programme. He added that referees experiencing medical challenges are permitted to withdraw to safeguard their health.
On the significance of the Young Talent Programme, he described it as a foundational platform for developing future elite referees.
“The Young Talent Course is intended to launch referees to greater heights. It focuses on development rather than FIFA badges at this stage. Badge considerations come later after practical assessments,” he explained.
Mejuobi revealed that participants who fail to meet the programme’s standards will not advance, while exceptional performers could earn promotion to the elite referee category in the Nigeria Premier Football League and eventually be considered for FIFA nomination.
The training also features extensive classroom sessions covering the Laws of the Game and recent amendments introduced by football’s lawmakers.
He emphasized that game management remains one of the most important aspects of referee education, particularly within the Nigerian football environment.
“Referees must understand the laws thoroughly and apply them correctly while effectively managing the game. Confidence, consistency and sound judgment are essential,” he said.
Mejuobi noted that accurate and consistent decision-making is vital in building public confidence in officiating, particularly in contentious situations such as handball decisions.
He further disclosed that the NFRA has engaged relevant authorities to address security concerns at match venues and improve protection for referees during competitions.
In addition, plans are underway to organize an elite training programme for top referees, focusing on updates to the Laws of the Game and modern officiating standards.
Responding to concerns about Nigeria’s absence from recent FIFA World Cup referee appointments, Mejuobi urged stakeholders to focus on solutions rather than criticism.
“The issue is no longer why Nigeria did not have a referee at the World Cup. The focus should be on what we are doing to change that situation,” he said.
He revealed that the NFRA established a committee to examine the matter and produce recommendations, which have since been submitted to the Nigeria Football Federation for implementation.
According to Mejuobi, both the NFRA and the NFF are committed to ensuring that Nigerian referees regain representation at future FIFA World Cup tournaments.
“We are working closely with the federation to ensure that Nigerian referees are positioned to feature at the next World Cup,” he added.
