By Joel Ajayi
Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, has commended Nigerian referees for their positive contributions to the successful 2024/25 NPFL season, which saw Remo Stars emerge as champions.
Elegbeleye gave the commendation on Friday during a press briefing held to review the just-concluded season and unveil plans for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign, scheduled to kick off on August 22, 2025, and end in May 2026.
He praised the quality of officiating in the league, noting significant improvement and describing Nigerian referees as among the best in the world.
> “I’ve travelled around the world and witnessed some shocking officiating decisions—something you hardly see in the NPFL. That’s why I confidently say our referees are among the best globally,” he said.
Elegbeleye also pointed to the growing international recognition Nigerian referees are receiving.
> “At the just-concluded U-20 Championship in Egypt, a Nigerian referee officiated, and another has been shortlisted for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This shows clear progress,” he noted.
While acknowledging that the system is not yet perfect, the NPFL chairman stressed the importance of sustained support and constructive criticism.
> “There’s still room for improvement, but we’re growing. We also count on the media to help us highlight any irregularities and keep the league accountable,” he concluded.
