The General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mohammed Sanusi, has sparked fresh debate within the domestic football scene after admitting that Nigerian referees are susceptible to external influence.
Sanusi made the statement while addressing concerns over the quality of officiating in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), a competition that has long faced criticism over inconsistent refereeing decisions.
According to him, while efforts are being made to improve standards, the issue of integrity among match officials remains a significant challenge.
He acknowledged that pressure from club officials, fans, and even local environments often affects referees’ judgment during matches.
“We cannot deny the reality. Some of our referees are easily influenced, and that affects the credibility of the game,” Sanusi stated.
“His remarks come amid growing complaints from clubs and stakeholders who have repeatedly questioned controversial calls in crucial fixtures.
Sanusi emphasized that the NFF is actively working with the Referees Committee to address these concerns through stricter monitoring, better welfare packages, and enhanced training programs.
He noted that improving referees’ remuneration and security could reduce their vulnerability to manipulation.
The NFF scribe also revealed plans to introduce more technological support and accountability measures, including performance reviews and possible sanctions for erring officials.
He stressed that restoring confidence in officiating is essential for the growth of Nigerian football and attracting investment into the league.
Reactions to Sanusi’s comments have been mixed, with some praising his honesty while others argue that the admission reflects poorly on the federation’s ability to manage the game effectively.
However, many stakeholders agree that acknowledging the problem is a crucial first step toward meaningful reform.
As the NPFL season progresses, attention will now shift to how the NFF implements these promised changes and whether they will lead to improved officiating standards across the country.
