Debate Erupts on Social Media Over Absence of Nigerian Referees at 2025 AFCON
A social media post has sparked fresh debate among football fans after a Nigerian user expressed dissatisfaction over the absence of Nigerian referees and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 tournament.
On December 28, 2025, Twitter (now known as X) user @DejiAdesogan posted a comment expressing frustration that no Nigerian referees or VAR team members were selected to officiate matches at the continental championship.
The post argued that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should show “due respect to Nigeria as the most populous Black nation and an African giant,” implying that the country’s stature should be reflected in the composition of match officials.
The original post, which was later edited at 21:03, quickly drew significant attention, generating substantial views and engagement from followers who weighed in on referee selection and national representation in African football.
However, many users in the comment section challenged the premise of the post, arguing that referee appointments for major tournaments like AFCON should be based on merit, experience, and performance, rather than nationality.
Several commentators questioned whether Nigerian referees’ performance levels in the domestic league align with CAF’s criteria for officiating at an elite continental event.
“Officials should be selected strictly on competency and track record,” one commenter wrote, while another suggested that improvements in domestic officiating standards could strengthen future representation at top tournaments.
The online conversation reflects broader discussions within Nigerian football circles about officiating standards, transparency in referee development programs, and how national associations prepare match officials for international appointments.
CAF typically appoints referees and VAR officials for its tournaments based on assessments of their performance, fitness, and experience in international and high‑profile matches, rather than geographic or demographic factors.
As debate continues on social platforms, football stakeholders and fans are likely to focus attention on how referee development and selection processes can be improved to enhance Nigerian representation at future continental competitions.
