The Confederation of African Football has selected Nigerian referee Yemisi Akintoye as one of the match officials for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, marking a significant milestone in her officiating career.

Akintoye, who became a FIFA-badged referee in 2021, secured her place after successfully completing CAF's rigorous medical, physical fitness and technical assessments ahead of the continental tournament.

The appointment represents her first opportunity to officiate at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, Africa's premier international women's football competition.

The 2026 edition of the tournament will be hosted by Morocco from 26 July to 16 August, bringing together the continent's top women's national teams in a battle for African supremacy.

Nigeria's Nigeria women's national football team will head into the competition as defending champions, aiming to retain the title and further extend their dominance in African women's football.

Akintoye's selection is another positive development for Nigerian football, highlighting the country's growing influence not only through its players and coaches but also through the quality of its match officials on the continental stage.

Her inclusion among CAF's elite referees reflects years of dedication, continuous development and consistent performances in domestic and international competitions.

As one of the officials entrusted with maintaining the integrity of matches at Africa's biggest women's football tournament, Akintoye will carry the hopes of Nigerian refereeing as she prepares for her debut on one of the continent's grandest sporting stages.

Opinion: Recognition Beyond the Players Deserves Equal Celebration

When Nigeria records success in football, attention naturally focuses on players and coaches. However, the appointment of Yemisi Akintoye is a reminder that referees also play a crucial role in raising the country's profile internationally.

CAF's selection process is demanding, requiring officials to meet strict standards of fitness, technical knowledge and decision-making. Akintoye's successful qualification demonstrates that Nigerian referees can compete with the very best on the continent.

Her appointment should also inspire more women to pursue careers in football officiating. While referees rarely receive the same recognition as players, their contributions are essential to the credibility and growth of the game.

With the Super Falcons defending their continental crown and a Nigerian referee taking charge of matches at the tournament, the 2026 Women's AFCON presents another opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its excellence both on and off the pitch.