Nigeria Football Federation addresses referee death in Abuja

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Development Committee has addressed the death of a referee who collapsed during a fitness test in Abuja. Committee Chairman Faith Irabor stated that the incident was unfortunate and denied any negligence in the medical screening process.

According to Irabor, the deceased official had undergone mandatory medical examinations, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), in his state of origin. He presented a medical report signed by a doctor certifying him as fit for the exercise. Additionally, the medical team from the National Sports Commission conducted further checks using a prescribed format to certify the referees before they were cleared for training.

Irabor noted that officials were closely monitoring the referees during the physical training to respond to any signs of distress. She stated that staff observed the referee staggering and attempted resuscitation efforts immediately after he fell.