NPFL: NRA Boss Okays Officiating Of Matches

The President of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA),  Ahmed Maude, has described the officiating in the opening matches of the Nigeria Professional Football Leagues (NPFL) 2012/2013 season, as encouraging.

Maude made the remark in an interview with Tidesports in Lagos.

Many NPFL teams recorded away victories, which the president described as a sign of good things to come in the season.

“We have being doing very well, but this season will be better, the league starting late will put everyone on their toes, so there is no room for any lapses from all quarters.

“It is commendable that we are recording away victories, which is good for the development of the league,’’ Maude said.

On security, he called on the NPFL to ensure that maximum security was provided for match officials at all venues.

The president told Tidsports that since referees play critical role in matches, they must be protected from the ire of restive fans who might disagree with their decisions.

“The referees are ready to give their best and they should be encouraged, by providing adequate security for them; they should be protected from angry fans as the case maybe.

“I hope the NPFL will provide tight securities at match venues; no referee would want to endanger his life when fans go on the rampage, so the NPFL should play its role.

Maude also stressed the need to pay adequate remuneration to match officials, and urged the organisers to ensure that referees are remunerated as and when due.

“By so doing, referees will have no justification to succumb to match fixing.

“Referees should be encouraged, they should be paid their indemnities without delay; I am sure that if all these things are done we won’t have any rancor this season,’’ the president said.