The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a stern warning to match officials across the country’s domestic leagues, promising tougher sanctions to address the growing concern over controversial officiating.

The warning was delivered during the NFF Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja, where the federation expressed deep disappointment with the standard of refereeing in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) and Nationwide League One (NLO).

According to the federation, a rise in questionable decisions has continued to damage the credibility of local competitions, prompting the need for urgent intervention. The NFF announced plans to introduce disciplinary actions, retraining programmes, and stricter monitoring systems aimed at restoring professionalism and integrity across Nigerian football.

“We are out to fight incompetence, collusion and any manipulation that undermines the credibility of our competitions,” the NFF was quoted as saying.

“Stronger measures are on the way, and any official found compromising the game will face decisive consequences.”

The federation stressed that referees and match officials must understand the weight of responsibility placed on them, as their decisions directly affect clubs, players, supporters, and the overall image of Nigerian football.

Opinion: A Timely Warning That Must Lead to Action

The NFF’s warning comes at a time when frustration over refereeing decisions has reached a boiling point among fans, clubs, and stakeholders. While statements and threats of sanctions are welcome, consistent enforcement will ultimately determine whether this move leads to meaningful change.

For years, controversial calls have overshadowed performances on the pitch, discouraging investment and eroding trust in the system. If the federation follows through with retraining, transparent disciplinary measures, and proper oversight, Nigerian football stands to regain some of its lost credibility.

However, this must go beyond talk. Referees who uphold the laws of the game should be protected and rewarded, while those who compromise integrity must face real consequences. Only then can Nigerian domestic football begin to rebuild confidence and attract the respect it deserves.