NFRA Mourns Late President Sani Zubairu, Pledges to Preserve His Legacy

An atmosphere of grief and reflection filled Bauchi as leaders and members of the Nigeria Football Referees’ Association (NFRA) paid a condolence visit to the family of their late President, Sani Zubairu, during the three-day Fidau prayers held in his honour.

Zubairu passed away in the early hours of Monday, a loss that has deeply affected the refereeing community nationwide. Following the news of his death, members of the association gathered in Bauchi, joined by the National Executive Committee led by Deputy President Kelechi Mejuobi.

During the visit, Mejuobi expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, describing the late president’s passing as a significant loss to Nigerian refereeing. He noted that Zubairu’s absence would be strongly felt, as his contributions to the association were both impactful and far-reaching.

He praised Zubairu’s dedication, highlighting his lifelong commitment to improving the welfare and development of referees across Nigeria. According to him, the late administrator served selflessly in various roles within the NFRA and the Nigeria Football Federation, leaving behind a legacy of service and excellence.

Mejuobi further described Zubairu as a unifying figure who was fair, deeply principled, and devoted to the growth of the profession, regardless of ethnic or regional differences.

He also disclosed that the association is already considering ways to honour and immortalise the late president, alongside other past leaders who contributed to the progress of the NFRA. He assured that Zubairu’s legacy would remain a guiding force for the association and that the NFRA would continue to maintain a strong relationship with the families of its departed members.

Responding on behalf of the family, Zubairu’s younger brother, Umar Wada Sani, thanked the association for its unwavering support throughout the difficult period. He expressed appreciation to members who stayed in Bauchi to offer prayers and support, and wished them safe travels back to their respective destinations.

Among those present at the Fidau prayers were former NFRA President Ahmed Maude, Vice Presidents Emma Imiere and Ibrahim Umar Fagge, as well as key officials including Suleiman Omezia and Nicholas Achikasim.

Other attendees included Anirou Shantali, Muhammad Isa, and Sani Gusau, alongside referees and officials from various states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Prayers were offered for the repose of Zubairu’s soul, as colleagues, friends, and loved ones reflected on a life marked by dedication, integrity, and service to football officiating in Nigeria.