A five-day comprehensive training program for Nigeria’s intermediate referees will conclude with a closing ceremony at the NFF/FIFA Goal Project, MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Friday.
Throughout the week, the 40 participants engaged in various classroom sessions, including group discussions on penalty-area incidents, tactical fouls, recovery strategies, offside, handball, and the challenges referees face. The course began on Monday with a fitness test, followed by an overview of the course objectives and a video presentation on modern refereeing.
Moreover, the program included on-field sessions with players and mini-matches. These activities aimed to prepare the intermediate referees for advancement to the elite level.
On Friday morning, there will be a final practical training session and a presentation on the new match preparation concept. The closing ceremony will commence at 2:30 pm.
The primary objectives of the course are to identify, harness, and nurture the refereeing potential of the participants. Additionally, the program aims to establish a sustainable development trend through the Young Talent Program, create a pool of talented young referees for national and international events, and ensure continuous growth and development of refereeing in Nigeria.
Two FIFA instructors have overseen the program: former FIFA referee Felix Tangawarima from Zimbabwe (FIFA Senior Technical Instructor and COSAFA VAR Project Manager) and Mark Mzengo from Malawi (FIFA Fitness Instructor).
Furthermore, starting on Sunday, July 7th, another five-day course for Nigeria’s elite referees will commence at the same venue. This course, also involving 40 participants, aims to enhance the skills and performance of Nigeria’s top referees.
