In a month where precision and fair play were the name of the game, Adekoya Warith has emerged as the recipient of the February 2025 NNL ProStar/Sportlight Hub Award as the Best Referee. Warith, known for his consistent and reliable officiating, made his mark in the highly anticipated match between Gateway FC and Kun Khalifa FC, where the away team claimed a 3-1 victory in Ilaro.
The match saw Warith take charge with the sharp-eyed support of his Assistant Referees, Akande Abeeb and Olofinbinu Mayowa. Together, they ensured the game was officiated with the fairness, focus, and respect that have become synonymous with the NNL’s commitment to integrity.
Warith, a proud Grade One Referee from the Lagos State Football Referees Council, has earned a reputation for being a dependable official on the field. Off the pitch, he’s also a dedicated student, pursuing an HND in Surveying and Geo Informatics at Yabatech, Lagos.
Read Also: ProStar/Sportlight Hub Awards: NNL Celebrates February’s Top Achievers
In his reaction to the award, Warith expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m truly honoured to receive this award. Refereeing is all about fairness, focus, and respect—and I’m grateful to be recognized for doing what I love. Huge thanks to my mentors, fellow officials, and everyone who supports our work on and off the pitch.” His words highlight the spirit of unity and teamwork that defines the backbone of Nigerian football officiating.
The awards ceremony, which will take place April 15th, 2025, at the NNL Secretariat in Abuja, will also celebrate other outstanding performers of the month. Here’s a look at the other nominees:
- Highest Goal Scorer: Anthony Ndubuisi (Madiba FC, Lagos)
- Best Behaved Team: First Bank FC, Lagos
- Best Goalkeeper: Lateef Nurudeen (Igbajo FC, Osun State)
- Best Coach: Uzorho Obinna (Kun Khalifat FC, Imo State)
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Austin Ajegbeyi (First Bank FC, Lagos)
- Goal of the Month: Energy Kennedy (Godswill Akpabio United FC, Uyo)
As the NNL continues to spotlight the incredible talent and hard work across the league, Warith’s recognition serves as a reminder that fair play, dedication, and excellence don’t go unnoticed. This award is a well-deserved acknowledgement of his contributions to the League and his role in making Nigerian football a better place for all.
