Gusau Charges Newly Badged Referees On Integrity As League Broadcast Expands

Gusau Charges Newly Badged Referees On Integrity As League Broadcast Expands

Sampson Adedeji

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has charged newly badged referees to uphold the highest standards of integrity in the discharge of their duties, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking in Abuja during the presentation of FIFA badges to about 30 Nigerian referees, Gusau stressed that increased television coverage of domestic matches has placed officials under greater public scrutiny.

“Our league matches are now being televised. 

For instance, the game between Shooting Stars and Warri Wolves was broadcast live on approximately eleven television stations. We intend to increase this coverage to thirty stations by the end of the season, ensuring that your officiating will be visible worldwide,” Gusau said.

The NFF boss warned that the era of poor officiating going unnoticed is over, noting that live broadcasts and global viewership demand transparency and professionalism from match officials.

He further directed the referees’ committee to take decisive action against any official found wanting in performance or conduct, including the withdrawal of badges where necessary.

Gusau reiterated that the integrity of the game must be protected at all costs, urging the newly badged officials under the auspices of FIFA to justify the confidence reposed in them and project a positive image of Nigerian football both locally and internationally.