NFF Raises Alarm Over South African Referees Appointed For Nigeria’s World Cup Qualifier Against Gabon

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has voiced strong concern over the appointment of South African referees to officiate the Super Eagles’ opening World Cup qualifying playoff match against Gabon, scheduled to take place in Morocco

NFF Questions Neutrality Of Match Officials

FIFA has appointed Tom Abongile of South Africa as the centre referee, with his compatriot Zakhele Siwela serving as assistant referee. Another South African, Akhona Makalima, has been assigned as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

Additionally, Hughes Alain Ndjovi from Benin Republic will serve as the referee assessor for the match.

The NFF, however, has made it clear that it is “not comfortable” with the appointments, citing concerns over conflicts of interest given that South Africa and Benin Republic are both in the same qualifying group as Nigeria.

Tensions Over South African Officials

The Nigerian football body referenced the recent remarks made by South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, who publicly admitted his “lack of love” for Nigeria, suggesting that the appointment of officials from that country could compromise fairness in such a high-stakes fixture.

“It’s unacceptable that referees from South Africa—whose sports minister has openly declared animosity toward Nigeria—are being allowed to handle a match this important,” a source within the NFF reportedly stated.

The federation insists that FIFA should reconsider the appointments and select officials from countries without any direct involvement or emotional bias in the qualifying series.

Benin Republic Connection Raises Eyebrows

The appointment of Benin’s Hughes Alain Ndjovi as the referee assessor has also sparked debate. Nigeria defeated Benin 4-0 in their final group-stage game to book a place in the playoff tournament — a result that ended Benin’s qualification hopes.

NFF officials argue that these connections, while not direct evidence of bias, create unnecessary tension and potential credibility issues around the officiating team.

What’s Next?

With the Super Eagles set to face Gabon in Morocco, the NFF is reportedly in dialogue with FIFA to express their reservations. The federation maintains that it trusts FIFA’s process, but insists that transparency and neutrality must remain paramount in matches of such magnitude.

As Nigeria continues its quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ensuring fair play and impartial officiating remains a top priority for the federation and millions of fans watching around the world.