The Nigerian football community is mourning the death of Nigeria Referees Association (NRA) President Alhaji Sani Zubairu, a former FIFA referee whose leadership played a key role in shaping officiating standards in the country.
Zubairu, who hailed from Bauchi State, died after a period of illness, bringing an end to his tenure as head of the referees’ body.
His passing was confirmed on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, and has been described as a major loss, particularly within refereeing circles across Nigeria.
Elected president of the association in 2023, Zubairu’s time in office was marked by efforts to improve professionalism, integrity, and welfare among referees.
His influence extended beyond administrative duties, with many within the game crediting him for mentoring and supporting officials at various stages of their careers.
His death comes less than a year after the passing of his predecessor, Otunba Tade Azeez, who died in 2025, leaving Nigerian refereeing to deal with yet another significant loss in a short period.
Outside football, Zubairu was also active in politics, having contested National Assembly elections on several occasions.
One tribute highlighted the depth of his influence on referees across the country:
Zubairu’s legacy is expected to endure through the many referees he mentored and the systems he helped strengthen.
His passing leaves a gap not only in Nigeria but within African football, where the development of referees remains a critical part of the game’s growth.
