The leadership of Nigerian referees has addressed recent concerns. They dismissed claims that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) intentionally excluded the country. These claims related to the officiating team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Many football fans had questioned this absence. They wondered how a nation of Nigeria’s stature could be entirely overlooked.

Sani Zubairu, President of the Nigeria Referees Association, has now clarified the situation.

Zubairu, a retired FIFA referee, called the exclusion claims unfair. He stressed that they did not reflect the truth of the matter.

“It is wrong to claim Nigerian officials were neglected or ignored,” he told the Telegraph. “We received an invitation,” he added.

Why Nigerian Officials Were Not Selected

Zubairu explained the selection process. Two Nigerian officials, holding FIFA badges, were initially involved. They attended CAF preparatory programmes in Egypt. However, their hopes ended during critical assessments.

He further stated, “A centre referee and an assistant referee were invited. They attended a course in Egypt. Regrettably, our referees failed both the physical and technical tests. Consequently, they were dropped.”

“That is the core issue,” Zubairu emphasised. “It is very unfortunate. We received an invitation and the opportunity. Yet, we could not succeed. That is the true situation.”

CAF’s Rigorous Selection Process

Zubairu clarified that CAF’s selection process is not just a formality. He described it as a rigorous screening system. This system tests officials across various aspects.

He elaborated: “An invitation means a screening exercise. It is a test. Officials must undergo physical, tactical, and medical assessments. From these tests, those chosen for the tournament are selected. That is precisely what occurred.”

AFCON 2025 Referee Roster and Schedule

The final referee roster includes officials from Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Gabon, Benin, Niger, and Mauritania. Nigeria is noticeably absent. It stands as the sole former AFCON champion in West Africa without a spot.

AFCON 2025 is scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

All selected officials must report to Morocco by December 15. They will undergo intensive preparations. This training covers fitness, technical drills, and theoretical sessions. It is all in readiness for kick-off.