The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is set to welcome back FIFA-badged referees as the competition moves into its third week.
After their participation in various continental matches, these international officials are expected to elevate the quality of officiating in the league.
One standout referee returning is Dr. Joseph Ogabor, a renowned FIFA official who recently officiated in AFCON and CAF Champions League qualifiers in South Sudan and Congo.
He will take center stage at the Lafia Township Stadium on September 21, where Nasarawa United will face Elkanemi Warriors. This match reignites a fierce rivalry, reminiscent of their clash in the NNL Super Eight Playoff.
Dr. Ogabor will be joined by his brother, Ogar Linus, as well as Oladoja Muyiwa from Oyo State as Assistant Referee 1. The officiating team will be assessed by Dr. Alex Mana, a respected FIFA referee and lecturer at the National Institute of Sports in Lagos.
Other notable appointments include Nurudeen Abubakar, who will officiate the Rangers International vs. Bayelsa United match on October 2, and Abubakar Abdulahi, overseeing Sunshine Stars vs. Abia Warriors on September 22. The women’s game will also feature FIFA referee Hannah Eliagwu, officiating the match between Kano Pillars and Remo Stars.
With these experienced officials returning to domestic action, fans and players alike can expect a thrilling and well-officiated round of NPFL matches this weekend.
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