In a surprising turn of events, Nigerian referees have once again been left out of the lineup for officiating at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, sparking controversy and raising questions about the recognition of Nigerian arbiters on the international stage.

This exclusion marks a continued struggle for Nigerian referees to gain acknowledgment from both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) in recent years, highlighting a concerning trend within the African football officiating community.

The 2023 AFCON officiating team comprises officials from 19 different nationalities, with notable representation from countries such as Egypt and Morocco, each contributing three representatives. In contrast, Nigeria, a powerhouse in African football, is notably absent from the list of officials, further fueling the debate about the lack of recognition for Nigerian referees.

The absence of Nigerian referees at the upcoming AFCON event in Cote d’Ivoire in 2023 raises pertinent questions about the criteria and considerations employed by CAF in the selection process, especially in light of the significant role Nigeria has played in shaping the African football landscape.

Notably, the 2023 AFCON finals are scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, further underscoring the missed opportunity for Nigerian referees to showcase their skills and contribute to the prestigious tournament.

As the football community awaits the highly anticipated AFCON event, the exclusion of Nigerian referees serves as a reminder of the broader discussions and reforms needed within the realm of African football officiating, urging for transparency and equity in the selection of officials.

Moreover, with the Super Eagles drawn in Group A alongside hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau, the absence of Nigerian referees from the officiating team adds another layer of significance to their non-participation in the tournament, amplifying the impact of this decision on Nigerian football representation at the continental stage.