The South-West Football Association Chairmen’s Forum has received with profound shock and a heavy heart the sad news of the passing of one of Nigeria’s foremost football administrators and refereeing icons, Otunba Tade Azeez.
This tragic loss was confirmed on Friday, 25th April 2025, leaving the entire football fraternity in the South-West, and indeed Nigeria, in mourning. Otunba Tade Azeez was a man of immense character, profound integrity, and a tireless contributor to the growth and development of football, both on and off the pitch.
A distinguished sports administrator, Otunba Azeez was the immediate past President of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA), where he served with uncommon dedication, helping to reform and reposition the refereeing sector within the Nigerian football ecosystem.
His leadership was marked by bold reforms, capacity-building initiatives for match officials, and an unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the beautiful game.
In addition to his national role, Otunba Azeez was a pillar within the Lagos State football administration, having served diligently as the Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association under the able leadership of Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi for an unbroken period of eight years.
His tenure was notable for fostering grassroots football development, supporting youth empowerment programs through sports, and promoting a culture of excellence within the Lagos football community.
In his reaction, the Coordinator of the South-West Football Association Chairmen’s Forum, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a colleague, friend, and mentor to many in the football family. “Otunba Tade Azeez was more than a football administrator; he was a man whose passion for the game was infectious, whose wisdom shaped many decisions, and whose legacy will endure for generations.
His death is a monumental loss, not only to Lagos football but to the entire Nigerian football structure.”
On behalf of all the Football Association Chairmen in the South-West region, the Forum extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Lagos State Football Association, the Nigeria Referees Association, and the entire Nigerian football community.
The Forum also prays for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for his family and associates to bear this irreparable loss.
Otunba Tade Azeez’s contributions to football administration and refereeing development remain indelible, and his memory will be eternally etched in the annals of Nigerian sports history.
