The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially announced the schedule for the 2024/2025 mid-season training and physical fitness test for referees and match officials. This initiative, aimed at enhancing officiating standards, will bring together Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) referees, assistant referees, and FIFA-accredited match officials.
According to a circular signed by the Head of the NFF Refereeing Unit, Hon. Sani Zubairu (FIFA Retired), the program will run from January 22 to January 27, 2025, and will include medical evaluations, physical fitness tests, and development sessions.
Details of the Schedule:
- Group A (Arrival and Medicals): January 22, 2025
- Group B (Arrival and Medicals): January 24, 2025
All international referees and assistant referees are required to report to Group A for the initial phase of the program.
The mid-season training is part of the NFF’s commitment to raising officiating standards in the NPFL and ensuring that Nigerian referees maintain peak physical condition and stay updated on the latest developments in match officiating.
Hon. Zubairu emphasized the importance of the program in preparing match officials for the demands of the second half of the league season and international assignments.
The program reflects the NFF’s dedication to improving the quality of football officiating in Nigeria. By aligning with global best practices, the initiative seeks to bolster the performance of referees and match officials, fostering fairness and professionalism in both domestic and international competitions.
Referees and stakeholders alike are optimistic that the training will contribute significantly to the continued development of Nigerian football.
Oluwayemi Omolagba