The Nigeria Football Federation is happy with the performance of its Referees Committee, hence the re-appointment of most members of the previous panel into the newly –composed committee.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, at the inauguration of the Committee, NFF 1st Vice President/LMC chairman, Shehu Dikko, who stood in for NFF President Amaju Pinnick, said the NFF administration is committed to rewarding excellence and to support great ideas.
“The NFF leadership is happy with this Committee’s performance and that is why most members were re-appointed. Last season, we had issues with only two matches out of 380. That is outright distinction and must be appreciated.
“However, last season is gone, we need to consolidate on what we achieved in the past season. We will do everything to support the Committee to succeed as it will reflect on our Leagues in terms of officiating. On our part, we will ensure referees are happy as indeminity payments will be reviewed upwards as well as the quality of accommodation. We have spoken to the Inspector –General of Police for special police force for the safety of our match officials.”
NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi also confirmed that the NFF is happy with the performance of the outgone Committee, and would want the new panel to continue in similar light.
Speaking earlier, Chairman of the NFF Referees Committee, Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, said the nomination of most members of the old panel into the newly –composed Committee “is a wonderful opportunity to continue to work with old friends, I believe that even the two new members will inject new vigour into the activities of the Committee.
“There were a number of challenges that we faced the last time, but with hard work and diligence, we were able to surmount them. We believe that past positive experiences will make us perform even better this term.”
The NFF Referees Committee is composed thus: Alh. Ahmed Yusuf Fresh (Chairman); Alh. Sharif Rabiu Inuwa (Vice Chairman); Mr. Tade Azeez (Member); Alh. Ahmed Maude (Member); Mallam Salihu Abubakar (Member); Mr. Dave Egho (Member); Sir E. C. Chukwuemeka (Member); Mr. Linus Mba (Consultant); Elder Daniel Olokor (Consultant); Alh. Sani Zubairu (Secretary)
