No fewer than 30 Nigerian referees were on Monday decorated with FIFA badges, as the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, MON, charged them to uphold integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
The decoration ceremony, which signals their recognition on the international stage, empowers the officials to handle FIFA-sanctioned matches across competitions within and outside the continent.
Addressing the referees, Gusau emphasized the importance of credibility and transparency, particularly at a time when more domestic and international matches are being broadcast live on television.
He noted that with the growing visibility of Nigerian football through live coverage, every decision taken on the pitch would be subject to intense public scrutiny.
“You must uphold the highest standards of integrity in your officiating. With most matches now on live television, the eyes of the world are on you,” Gusau stated.
The NFF president further urged the referees to see the FIFA badge as a mark of trust and responsibility, adding that their conduct both on and off the field would reflect not only on themselves but also on the country.
The newly badged officials are expected to represent Nigeria in various FIFA and continental assignments, reinforcing the country’s presence in global football officiating.
