It was a moment of pride and accomplishment for John Tope Ojeleye on Thursday as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially decorated him with the prestigious FIFA badge, marking his entry into the elite ranks of international referees.
At a ceremony held in Abuja, the NFF conferred FIFA badges on 30 referees, granting them the authority to officiate international matches in 2025.
Among the newly listed officials, Ojeleye stood out as one of only three first-time awardees, joining the ranks of distinguished Nigerian arbiters.
For Ojeleye, a futsal referee, this recognition is the culmination of years of dedication to the craft of officiating.
His steady rise through the ranks of Nigerian football, particularly in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), earned him a reputation for fairness, precision, and unwavering discipline on the pitch.
“I feel deeply honored to receive this badge,” Ojeleye said after the ceremony.
“It’s a dream come true, and I’m grateful to my mentors, colleagues, and family for their support. This is just the beginning—I look forward to representing Nigeria on the global stage.”
Ojeleye’s journey to international recognition has been marked by standout performances, including his officiating in high-profile NPFL fixtures.
His ability to maintain control of games, coupled with a deep understanding of the rules, made him a natural choice for FIFA certification.
With this badge, Ojeleye is now eligible to officiate at international futsal tournaments, World Cup qualifiers, and other FIFA-sanctioned events.
His promotion not only enhances his career prospects but also strengthens Nigeria’s presence in the global refereeing landscape.
As Nigerian football continues to produce world-class referees, Ojeleye’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring officials looking to make their mark in the sport.
With the world now watching, the newly minted FIFA referee is ready to take his expertise to the international stage.
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