Nigeria Football Referees’ Association president Sani Zubairu passes on

The President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association, Sani Zubairu, has sadly passed away following a short illness, the Nigerian Football Federation has confirmed.

Zubairu died on early hours of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, leaving a profound void in the Nigerian football community.

In a statement, NFRA Chairman Patrick Pascal described Zubairu as a towering figure in Nigerian football whose impact extended far beyond officiating. “His death is a huge loss, not just to Bauchi State but to Nigerian football as a whole,” Pascal said. “He was a mentor, a leader, and a guiding light to many young referees.”

Zubairu was widely respected for his commitment to developing refereeing standards across Nigeria. Under his leadership, NFRA undertook initiatives to train and mentor young referees, ensuring that the next generation of officials could uphold the integrity and professionalism of the game.

The news of his passing has elicited condolences from football stakeholders nationwide, with players, coaches, and officials paying tribute to his dedication, mentorship, and unwavering service to Nigerian football.

Zubairu’s death is not only a loss for the refereeing community but for the broader football ecosystem in Nigeria. Tributes have highlighted his vision for improving officiating, his mentorship of young talent, and his role in promoting fairness and professionalism across all levels of the sport.

Details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services are expected to be announced by NFRA in the coming days, as the Nigerian football family prepares to honor the legacy of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping refereeing standards in the country.