By Aderonke Ojo
The Bauchi State Football Association has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association, Alhaji Sani Zubairu, who died on Tuesday morning.
In a statement released shortly after the news broke, the Chairman of the association, Patrick Pascal, described the late Zubairu as a towering figure in Nigerian football and a mentor to countless referees across the country.
Pascal noted that Zubairu, a respected FIFA-rated referee who hailed from Bauchi State, dedicated much of his life to the growth and development of refereeing, both within the state and nationwide. He emphasized that the late administrator played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents, many of whom have gone on to officiate at top-level competitions.
“His death is a huge loss, not just to Bauchi State but to Nigerian football as a whole. He was a mentor, a leader, and a guiding light to many young referees,” Pascal said.
The Bauchi FA chairman further highlighted Zubairu’s commitment, professionalism, and integrity, describing him as a man who upheld the highest standards of the game.
He added that the association would continue to honor Zubairu’s legacy by sustaining efforts to develop grassroots refereeing and supporting young officials, in line with the late president’s vision.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football community, with many remembering Zubairu for his immense contributions and lasting impact on the sport.
Funeral arrangements are expected to hold on Tuesday by 4pm in accordance with Islamic rites.
