Gbemisola Yusuf, a promising young referee from Nigeria and University of Lagos undergraduate, has arrived in Cairo, Egypt, to participate in the prestigious CAF Young Referee Course.
Selected as one of 21 participants from across Africa, Yusuf joins the program following her recent success at the CAF African Schools Championship, where she officiated matches with notable poise and precision, including high-stakes games like the semifinal between Uganda and Morocco.
Her journey highlights the growing prominence of young Nigerian officials in African football, a rise strengthened by institutions such as the Lagos State Referees Council, which has supported her training and growth in the sport.
The four-day CAF Young Referee Course aims to advance technical and physical skills, overseen by esteemed referees like Janny Sikazwe from Zambia and Sayed Mohamed Ismail Emam of Egypt.
The course offers emerging referees like Yusuf an opportunity to gain experience and guidance from seasoned professionals.
According to CAF, the event represents part of its strategic mission to develop a strong base of skilled referees who can officiate at high levels across the continent.
Yusuf’s accomplishments reflect a broader trend in Nigerian football, where a new generation of referees, both male and female, is gaining recognition on the international stage.
Earlier in 2024, she also officiated at the FIFA Member Association (MA) course, a reflection of her potential and dedication.
Her path mirrors that of trailblazing African female referees, including Salima Mukansanga of Rwanda, and continues to inspire young officials in Nigeria and beyond to pursue their passion for refereeing.
Reflecting on her achievements, a Nigerian football official noted, “Gbemisola’s accomplishments signify a shift in the landscape of Nigerian refereeing, showcasing our capacity to develop world-class officials who handle pressure with grace and integrity”.
