Nigerian refereeing authorities have dismissed claims of a deliberate snub by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This relates to the selection of match officials for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Many supporters wondered why a nation of Nigeria’s football stature had no officials chosen.

Sani Zubairu, President of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA), has now clarified the situation. The retired FIFA referee stated that suggestions of CAF shutting out Nigeria were unfair. He said these claims did not reflect the truth.

“It is wrong to say Nigeria officials were neglected or ignored,” Zubairu told the Telegraph. “We were invited.” He explained that two Nigerian officials, both with FIFA badges, were part of the initial selection process. They attended CAF’s preparatory programmes in Egypt. However, their hopes ended during the critical assessment phase.

“We had a centre referee and an assistant referee invited for a course in Egypt,” Zubairu explained. “Unfortunately, our referees did not pass the physical and technical tests. They were subsequently dropped.” He added, “That is the issue. It’s very unfortunate. We were invited and given the opportunity, but we couldn’t make it. That is the true position.”

Zubairu emphasized that CAF’s selection process is not just a formality. He described it as a rigorous screening system. This system tests officials on multiple criteria. “Once you are invited, it’s a screening exercise,” he stated. “It’s a test. You have to participate in physical, tactical, and medical assessments.” He concluded, “From there, the officials chosen for the tournament are picked. That is exactly what happened.”

The final referee roster includes officials from several countries. These are Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Gabon, Benin, Niger, and Mauritania. Nigeria stands out as the only former AFCON champion in West Africa without a representative.

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 a demanding preparation period. This includes fitness training, technical drills, and theoretical sessions before the tournament begins.