The Nigeria Football Referees Association has begun a new leadership phase following the passing of its National President, Honourable Sani Zubairu, a retired FIFA referee whose influence shaped modern officiating in Nigeria.
During an emergency virtual meeting held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the association’s National Executive Council and State Executive Council formally informed members across the country of Zubairu’s death and began outlining steps to ensure stability and continuity within the organization.
The meeting reflected both mourning and resolve. Members described the late president’s death as a painful loss for the Nigerian refereeing community but emphasized their determination to continue the work he began.
At the center of the meeting was the transition of leadership and a renewed roadmap aimed at strengthening refereeing structures in Nigeria.
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Mejuobi Takes Over as Acting President
In line with the provisions of the association’s statute, Deputy President Honourable Kelechi Mejuobi officially assumed office as Acting President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association.
Mejuobi will complete the remainder of the tenure left by the late Sani Zubairu.
In his acceptance remarks, the Acting President expressed gratitude to members of the National Executive Council, the Full Executive Committee, and the General Assembly for trusting him with the responsibility of steering the association through a difficult moment.
He acknowledged the leadership vacuum created by Zubairu’s passing and pledged to lead with openness, diligence, and commitment.
Mejuobi assured members that he would work collaboratively with stakeholders across the federation to achieve the goals already set by the outgoing administration.
Commitment to the Rediscover NFRA Agenda
A major highlight of the meeting was the reaffirmation of the reform program known as the Rediscover NFRA Agenda.
The late Sani Zubairu, along with the current leadership team, originally conceived the initiative. Its objective is to rebrand, reposition, and reform the referees’ association to strengthen its relevance in Nigerian football.
Mejuobi confirmed that the agenda will remain a guiding framework for the administration. According to him, the reform effort is essential for improving professionalism, governance, and operational efficiency within the association.
Continuity in Leadership Appointments
To maintain stability and honour the late president’s vision, the meeting resolved that all appointments made during Zubairu’s administration will remain intact.
All zonal coordinators will retain their roles, while Alhaji Ibrahim Zailani will continue to serve as Special Adviser to the NFRA President.
Ad hoc committees established under the previous leadership will also continue their work. This includes the Constitution Review Committee, which is expected to play a crucial role in modernizing the association’s regulatory framework.
Reactivation of Key Standing Committees
The emergency meeting also resolved to fully reactivate the association’s standing committees as provided for in the NFRA statute.
Among the committees to be strengthened are the Grading Assessment and Examination Committee, the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, the Protocol and Publication Committee, and the Finance Committee.
These committees will be tasked with improving operational efficiency, enforcing standards, and supporting the professional development of referees across Nigeria.
Diversifying Revenue Sources
Another significant decision taken during the meeting concerns the association’s financial sustainability.
Members agreed that the NFRA must reduce its dependence on annual registration fees and rebates as its primary revenue sources.
To achieve this, a Marketing and Sponsorship Committee will be established. The committee will be responsible for identifying sponsorship opportunities, building corporate partnerships, and exploring commercial initiatives that can support the association’s programs and development activities.
Adoption of Technology for Referees’ Administration
The association also plans to introduce modern technological systems to improve its operations.
One of the immediate priorities is the development of an official NFRA website. Once operational, the platform will enable online membership registration, digital examination processes for referees, and better communication with members across the country.
The initiative is expected to improve transparency, efficiency, and international visibility for Nigerian referees.
Concern Over Nigeria’s Absence in Major International Officiating
Perhaps the most sobering moment of the meeting came during discussions about Nigeria’s declining presence in top-level international officiating.
Members noted with concern that Nigerian referees have not officiated as center referees in major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations or elite FIFA and CAF competitions since 2006.
The Grading and Assessment Committee will now be strengthened with experienced officials who will study the situation and propose strategies to restore Nigeria’s reputation at the highest level of global football officiating.
The move reflects a determination to rebuild pathways that will produce referees capable of representing Nigeria on the international stage again.
Focus on Health and Welfare of Referees
The meeting also addressed the growing concern about the health and welfare of referees.
Members were encouraged to prioritize regular medical checkups following recent deaths within the refereeing community.
The Welfare Committee has been mandated to develop structured support packages and welfare initiatives that will benefit referees and their families.
Upholding Integrity in Nigerian Football Officiating
Despite the challenges facing the profession, the association reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity in match officiating.
Referees across Nigeria were encouraged to continue the tradition of fair, firm, and unbiased decision-making during domestic competitions.
The NFRA will also maintain collaboration with league management bodies, including the Nigeria Premier Football League, the Nigeria National League, the Nigeria Nationwide League One, and the Nigeria Women Football League.
These partnerships are expected to promote professionalism while also improving the working conditions and welfare of match officials.
Plans to Honour the Legacy of Sani Zubairu
In recognition of the immense contributions of the late president, the meeting approved several initiatives aimed at immortalizing his legacy and celebrating other past leaders of the association.
Among the approved initiatives is the creation of the Sani Zubairu Cup, which will be contested during the Inter Council Soccer Championship.
The association also approved the establishment of the Otunba Tade Azeez Referee of the Year Award.
Additional awards will recognize excellence among referees each season, including Best Male Referee of the Season, Best Female Referee of the Season, Best Male Assistant Referee, Best Female Assistant Referee, and Best Young Referee of the Season.
These awards are expected to motivate officials and highlight outstanding performances within the refereeing community.
Administration Promises Transparency and Unity
Addressing members during the meeting, Acting President Mejuobi emphasized that his administration will operate an open-door policy built on transparency and accountability.
He assured referees nationwide that the leadership will remain inclusive and fair, regardless of tribe, religion, or regional affiliation.
The message resonated strongly with members who expressed the need for unity as the association navigates this period of transition.
Strengthening Partnership With the Nigeria Football Federation
The NFRA also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong strategic partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation.
The collaboration between both bodies remains vital for the development of refereeing standards, football governance, and the overall growth of the game in Nigeria.
Administrative Reforms on the Way
To improve member services, the association announced plans to streamline administrative processes, including the timely production and distribution of membership identity cards, calendars, and official badges.
Members were also informed that the annual NFRA magazine will soon be revived as part of efforts to improve communication and documentation of refereeing activities across the country.
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A Community Determined to Move Forward
The emergency meeting ended with a renewed sense of unity among members of the Nigeria Football Referees Association.
While the passing of Sani Zubairu remains a painful loss, the association’s leadership insists that the best way to honour his legacy is to continue working toward the professional growth and advancement of referees in Nigeria.
For Nigerian referees, the journey ahead will require resilience, reform, and renewed commitment to the ideals of professionalism that the late president championed throughout his career.
