NFF President Explains Delay in VAR Implementation in Nigeria Premier Football League

NFF President Explains Delay in VAR Implementation in Nigeria Premier Football League

By Niyi Busari 

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, has shed light on the challenges delaying the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking with BSN Sports on Tuesday during NPFL signing of broadcast and data rights at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Gusau cited financial, technical, and logistical factors as key obstacles to the rollout of VAR across Nigerian stadiums.

According to the NFF boss, the high cost of purchasing VAR equipment, the need for specialized training for referees and technicians, and the complex process of moving the technology between match venues have collectively slowed down its adoption. “What’s the essence of purchasing VAR equipment without having the engineers who can operate and manage it?” Gusau asked. “It involves a huge amount of money to train both referees and engineers to use it effectively. We are, however, planning to begin training our young referees on how to operate and manage the VAR systems.”

He further explained that the movement of VAR systems between venues requires trained engineers to dismantle, transport, and reassemble the equipment a process that adds to operational costs and time constraints.

 “We are currently exploring options for a movable VAR setup that would make the process easier and more efficient,” Gusau added. “By the time we finally introduce VAR in Nigeria, we want to ensure that it is fully functional and sustainable.”

Earlier in July, NFF Secretary General Dr. Sanusi Mohammed revealed that the federation had already begun taking steps toward implementation by sending a group of Nigerian referees to Morocco for specialized VAR training.

 “The NFF is impressed with the league’s scheduling discipline last season,” Sanusi said. “We’ve already sent some referees to Morocco for VAR training as we work towards its eventual introduction in the NPFL.”

Similarly, NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye confirmed the league body’s commitment to integrating the technology, noting that the introduction of VAR is part of broader efforts to improve officiating standards and credibility in Nigerian football. “We’re optimistic about introducing VAR soon,” Elegbeleye said. “Referees have already been selected and trained in Morocco to understand the fundamentals of operating the VAR equipment.”

While the exact timeline for VAR’s deployment in the NPFL remains uncertain, the NFF insists that groundwork is ongoing to ensure a smooth and permanent introduction of the technology in Nigeria’s top-flight football.