Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye, has commended the quality of officiating in the domestic topflight, describing Nigerian referees as among the best in the world.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists while reviewing the 2024/25 NPFL season, Elegbeleye stated:
"I’ve travelled around the world and witnessed some shocking officiating decisions—something you hardly see in the NPFL. That’s why I confidently say our referees are among the best globally."
The former Director General of the National Sports Commission highlighted visible improvements in officiating, which he said have opened doors for Nigerian referees on the international stage.
“At the just-concluded U-20 Championship in Egypt, a Nigerian referee officiated, and another has been shortlisted for the upcoming WAFCON. This shows clear progress,” he added.
While admitting that the league is not without flaws, Elegbeleye stressed the need for ongoing support and accountability:
“There’s still room for improvement, but we’re growing. We also count on the media to help highlight any irregularities and keep the league accountable,” concluded the Obafemi Awolowo University graduate and native of Ondo State.
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