The Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Otunba Elegbeleye, has said that Nigerian referees are fast earning global respect, ranking among the best in the world for their professionalism and integrity.
Elegbeleye made this assertion during an interactive session with sports journalists as part of a comprehensive review of the 2024/25 NPFL season.
Elegbeleye noted that Nigerian referees were among the best globally, citing their recent involvement in international assignments such as the U-20 Championship in Egypt and upcoming selections for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
“I’ve travelled far and wide and witnessed questionable officiating in other leagues, some quite shocking.
”In comparison, what we have in the NPFL is impressive. That’s why I can confidently say our referees are among the best globally,” the NPFL boss stated.
“These aren’t flukes. Our officials are being noticed because the quality has visibly improved. It’s a product of deliberate reforms and training,” he added.
The NPFL boss attributed the growth in quality to deliberate reforms and training, noting that the system’s evolution was a result of sustained efforts to improve officiating standards.
Elegbeleye called for constructive partnership between league management and the media in order to sustain accountability and transparency, acknowledging that there is still room for improvement.
”We’re not claiming perfection. There’s still room for improvement. But we’re growing, and the media has a role to play by spotlighting lapses where they exist and helping us push for better standards,”* he added.
The NPFL Chairman’s comments come amid ongoing efforts to professionalise all aspects of the league, including officiating, infrastructure, and player welfare, in a bid to elevate Nigeria’s domestic football to global prominence.
With Nigerian referees gaining international recognition, the NPFL is poised to take a significant step forward in its development.
