Tragedy in Abuja: Young Referee Dies After Collapsing During Fitness Test

Tragedy in Abuja: Young Referee Dies After Collapsing During Fitness Test

By Niyi Busari 

A young Nigerian football referee, Awang Solomon Maram, has reportedly died after collapsing during a fitness test at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Tuesday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Solomon, who was said to have been among a group of promising young referees being groomed for future international appointments, reportedly became unwell during the exercise before he later passed away.

His death has thrown the refereeing community into mourning, with the African Referees University describing him as a young and promising official and expressing shock over his sudden passing.

According to the institution, Maram joined the African Referees University about a year ago and had shown considerable promise as he pursued a career in football officiating.

The tragedy is particularly poignant as Maram reportedly got married only three weeks ago. He and his wife had yet to have children before his untimely death.

In a statement mourning his passing, the African Referees University described Maram as a valued member of its community and extended condolences to his family, friends and fellow referees.

Maram was reportedly part of a group of 25 young referees undergoing development with the aim of producing future Nigerian international match officials.

His death has once again highlighted the importance of comprehensive medical screening, appropriate fitness-test protocols and immediate emergency medical support during high-intensity sporting activities.

While details surrounding the exact cause of death were not immediately available, a medical examination or autopsy would be required to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

Following the tragedy, fellow referees are expected to accompany Maram’s remains to his ancestral home, where he will be laid to rest. The African Referees University also indicated that it would send representatives to attend his burial and pay their final respects.

The Nigerian football community is expected to await further official information from the relevant authorities regarding the incident.

Maram's death represents a devastating loss to his young family and to the refereeing community, which had hoped to see him progress to the international stage.