By Paul Joseph
The Nigeria Football Federation has announced the death of the President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association, Hon. Sani Zubairu, who passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, after a brief illness.
Zubairu, a respected former FIFA referee, also served as Head of the Refereeing Unit of the NFF and Secretary of its Referees Committee, playing a pivotal role in the development and administration of officiating in Nigerian football.
Reacting to the loss, NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, expressed deep sorrow, describing the late official as a dedicated and humble servant of the game.
“We are saddened to confirm the death of Hon. Sani Zubairu. It is another painful period for Nigeria football, coming shortly after the deaths of Adegboye Onigbinde and Henry Nwosu,” Sanusi said.
He noted that Zubairu was widely admired for his diligence, simplicity, and commitment, adding that he contributed immensely both on the pitch and in administrative roles. According to him, the late referees’ boss was deeply involved in mentoring and developing new generations of Nigerian referees capable of excelling locally and internationally.
Throughout his career, Zubairu was instrumental in organizing training programmes and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving the quality, professionalism, and global competitiveness of Nigerian referees.
His passing marks yet another significant loss to the Nigerian football community, with tributes expected from stakeholders across the sport.
The NFF extended its condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider football fraternity, praying for strength to bear the loss.
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