No Nigerian referee is included in the list of 94 officials, instructors, and assessors selected for the preparatory course ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This is the 19th consecutive year that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) will overlook Nigerian referees.

The intensive camp, slated for November 8–13 in Cairo, Egypt, will serve as CAF’s final readiness programme before the tournament kicks off in December.

It focuses on fitness, match management, and VAR operations to ensure consistent officiating standards across Africa’s premier football competition.

Nigeria’s continued absence from the roster means the country’s 19-year wait for representation among AFCON referees will persist.

The last Nigerian to officiate a match at the continental showpiece was Emmanuel Imiere, who handled a group-stage game between Zambia and Guinea at the 2006 edition in Egypt.

Sources attribute the persistent exclusion to inadequate VAR training and limited hands-on experience, which have become mandatory criteria for officiating at CAF and FIFA tournaments.

Beyond technical shortcomings, Nigerian referees also grapple with image and credibility issues, compounded by frequent domestic criticism.

Analysts argue that the West African Football Union (WAFU) — particularly Anglophone countries — must prioritize referee education and VAR integration.

While Francophone nations like Côte d’Ivoire boast structured VAR programmes, their Anglophone counterparts, including Nigeria, continue to lag behind.

In contrast, Southern African (COSAFA) countries have developed robust VAR systems and frequently collaborate on training and certification, leaving Nigeria trailing despite its strong football heritage.

The ongoing decline, observers warn, underscores an urgent need for intervention from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), referee committees, and the wider football community.

CAF’s latest selection will undergo physical tests, technical assessments, and sessions on the latest VAR applications in Cairo. Only those who successfully complete the programme will be cleared to officiate at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), had said efforts were being made to ensure Nigerian referees return to officiating in major continental and global competitions. (Daily Trust)