Gbemisola Yusuf, a rising referee from Nigeria and a University of Lagos undergraduate, is participating in the CAF Young Referee Course in Cairo, Egypt. Selected among 21 young referees from across Africa, Yusuf was chosen for this prestigious training following her commendable performance officiating matches at the CAF African Schools Championship, where she handled high stakes games with skill and composure, including a semifinal between Uganda and Morocco.
This four day course, designed to hone technical and physical officiating skills, is led by experienced referees such as Zambia’s Janny Sikazwe and Egypt’s Sayed Mohamed Ismail Emam. Yusuf’s journey exemplifies the growing prominence of young Nigerian referees on the African football stage, supported by institutions like the Lagos State Referees Council, which has been instrumental in her development.
Earlier this year, Yusuf also participated in the FIFA Member Association MA course, further highlighting her potential. Her accomplishments place her among the ranks of trailblazing African female referees, inspiring a new generation of officials in Nigeria and beyond.
Editorial
Gbemisola Yusuf’s participation in the CAF Young Referee Course represents a transformative step for Nigerian officiating. Her journey underscores the importance of fostering young referees who can bring integrity, resilience, and skill to high stakes matches. In a sport where officiating quality can define the outcome and experience, young officials like Yusuf play a critical role in raising the standard of refereeing, not just in Nigeria but across the continent.
The support from organisations like the Lagos State Referees Council shows a commitment to nurturing talents from the grassroots level. As Yusuf continues to gain international experience, she sets a powerful example for aspiring referees in Nigeria, proving that the path to officiating on global stages is attainable through dedication and hard work. Her achievements mirror the strides made by pioneers like Salima Mukansanga, paving the way for more women in refereeing roles.
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With officials like Yusuf gaining recognition, Nigerian football can look forward to a future where its referees command respect globally. Her story is a testament to the value of investing in referee development, reminding us that skilled officiating is crucial to the success of the game.
Did You Know?
- The CAF Young Referee Course aims to develop high level officials across Africa, fostering young talent from various countries.
- Janny Sikazwe, one of Yusuf’s mentors at the course, officiated at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, showcasing CAF’s commitment to quality training.
- Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga, who inspired Yusuf, became the first African woman to officiate a match at the men’s FIFA World Cup in 2022.
- Nigerian referees have a history of officiating at top CAF tournaments, with efforts now increasing to elevate young and female referees.
- CAF’s referee training programs align with its broader strategy to improve football quality across the continent by enhancing officiating standards.
