The NRA has received the sad news of the death of a former president and leader, Chief Bolaji Okubule.
The late Okubule until death was one of the revered pioneers of the association whose contributions to the growth of the referees body can’t be overlooked.
Popularly known as “Showboy” in the referees family due to his charismatic disposition to officiating during lifetime, the former president will be remembered by many for his extreme leadership qualities not just as a mentor but father of many in the art of whistle business.
He was a symbol of good officiating as a Fifa referee and commanded the space of officiating during active period.
Show Boy’s name cannot be easily deleted from the history of the NRA and Nigerian Football narrative if his antecedents were considered.
The association feels that the death is one too many at a time the NRA has lost bountiful of forebears and formators.
The death appears to be a devastating blow especially when it occured few months after the birthday celebration.
The NRA enjoins the family and Lagos State Referees Council to bear the loss in good faith knowing fully well Pa Okubule lived a fulfilled life as a statesman, community and christian leader during lifetime.
The NRA shall indeed miss his wise consul and comradeship.
Adieu our own Showboy
