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In a recurring disappointment, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has once again overlooked Nigerian referees for officiating duties in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire. This continued trend highlights the challenges faced by Nigerian referees in gaining recognition from both CAF and FIFA.
For the 2023 AFCON, CAF has selected officials from 19 different nationalities, with notable representation from Egypt and Morocco, each having three representatives. Algeria, Gabon, and Mauritania follow closely with two officials each. The absence of Nigerian referees in this selection further emphasizes the struggle for recognition on the continental stage.
Scheduled to run from January 13 to February 11, 2024, the 2023 AFCON finals will see the Super Eagles competing in Group A alongside hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. In the previous six editions, only three Nigerian referees have been included, underscoring the limited acknowledgment of their expertise in continental football events.
This decision by CAF raises concerns about the inclusivity and recognition of referees from various nations, prompting discussions about the criteria for selection and the need for equitable representation. As the tournament approaches, Nigerian football enthusiasts express disappointment at the exclusion of their referees and hope for a more inclusive approach in future editions.
