FIFA places 30 Nigerian referees on 2024 international lists
World football-governing body, FIFA has approved a total of 30 Nigerian referees to be placed on the international lists for the year 2024, among them 11 referees, 11 assistant referees, four beach soccer referees and four futsal referees.
In a message conveyed to the Nigeria Football Federation, the 11 referees approved for international duty from Nigeria for next year are: Basheer Salisu, Ogabor Odey Joseph, Olufunmilayo Abigael Alaba, Nurudeen Abubakar, Abdulsalam Kasimu Abiola, Elaigwe Hannah Enekole, Akintoye Yemisi Eunice, Egba Patrick John, Madu Ndidi Patience, Mustapha Grema Mohammed and Abdullahi Abubakar.
The 11 persons approved as assistant referees are: Pwadutakam Samuel, Igudia Efosa Celestine, Abibatu Iyadunni, Muhammad Yakubu, Mfon Friday Akpan, Digbori Tejiri, Usman Abdulmajeed Olaide, Igho Hope Ogenekewe, Terah Kabenda Beauty, Ahmad Mustapha Tijjani and Agbons Faith.
Ukah Ndubuisi Odigomma, Musa Dung Davou, Umuago Paul Akpome and Bello Zuru Alhassan were put on the futsal soccer list, while Ogunmuyiwa Jelili, Fawole Olawale Adeolu, Olajide Olayinka and Rabiu Ahmad were listed for beach soccer.
Underrepresentation of African referees
The selection of referees for international assignments by FIFA has been a subject of concern for African countries. Several factors contribute to the underrepresentation of African referees in international matches, including the quality of refereeing, infrastructure, and financial constraints.
One of the primary reasons for the underrepresentation of African referees in international assignments is the overall quality of refereeing. FIFA’s stringent requirements for international assignments make it challenging for African referees to meet these standards. African football associations often lack the resources and infrastructure to provide comprehensive training and development programs for referees. As a result, African referees may not have the same level of expertise and experience as their counterparts from more developed footballing nations.
Another factor contributing to the underrepresentation of African referees is the lack of proper infrastructure in many African countries. Inadequate facilities, such as pitches, training centers, and refereeing resources, make it difficult for African referees to improve their skills and knowledge. This lack of infrastructure ultimately affects the quality of refereeing and the ability of African referees to compete on an international level.
Financial constraints also play a significant role in the underrepresentation of African referees in international assignments. Many African countries face economic challenges that limit their ability to invest in the development of their referees. The high costs of travel, accommodations, and other expenses associated with international assignments can be prohibitive for African referees, especially those from smaller, less affluent football associations.
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