By Sports Recorder | Solomon OKPO
LAGOS, Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, has declared that Nigerian referees are fast earning global respect, ranking among the best in the world for their professionalism and integrity.
Elegbeleye made this bold assertion during an interactive session with sports journalists as part of a comprehensive review of the 2024/25 NPFL season.
“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.
He cited recent international assignments as evidence of this growth, pointing to Nigerian referees’ involvement in the U-20 Championship in Egypt and upcoming selections for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
“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.
While admitting the system is still evolving, Elegbeleye called for constructive partnership between league management and the media to sustain accountability and transparency.
“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 noted.
The NPFL Chairman’s comments come amid ongoing efforts to professionalize all aspects of the league, including officiating, infrastructure, and player welfare, in a bid to elevate Nigeria’s domestic football to global prominence.
