FIFA has announced the selection of 81 officials for the upcoming U-17 World Cup in Qatar, including Nigerian referee Abiola Kasimu Abdulsalam. The 34-year-old Zamfara-born official is the only Nigerian centre referee on FIFA's list and one of four referees selected from Africa for the competition. This marks the first time in 25 years that a Nigerian centre referee will officiate at the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Abdulsalam's selection is a significant milestone for Nigerian football.
Abdulsalam has built considerable international experience, having participated in two CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments as well as several WAFU competitions. His recent performances have also earned him another major assignment, as he is scheduled to referee the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture between Cameroon and Comoros. Abdulsalam became a FIFA-listed referee in 2022 and has retained his international badge through the annual assessment process.
The selection process for the U-17 World Cup officials was rigorous, with FIFA's Referees Committee chairman Pierluigi Collina stating that the officials selected were among the organisation's most promising match officials. Collina said the appointments were based not only on the officials' performances but also on their ability to operate effectively within international teams and cope with the demands of a major tournament.
Abdulsalam's inclusion in the list of officials is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. He was also the only Nigerian referee selected for the 2025 African Nations Championship. The FIFA U-17 World Cup will give Abdulsalam another opportunity to gain experience on the global stage and further his development as an international referee.
The FIFA U-17 World Cup is a premier international football competition for young players, and Abdulsalam's participation is expected to be a valuable learning experience for him. The tournament will feature teams from around the world, and Abdulsalam will be tasked with ensuring that the matches are played fairly and safely.
Abdulsalam's achievement is also a source of pride for Nigeria, as it highlights the country's growing presence in international football. The Nigerian football community has welcomed Abdulsalam's selection, and there is expectation that he will make a positive impact at the tournament.
The FIFA U-17 World Cup is scheduled to take place in Qatar, with the exact dates to be announced by FIFA. Abdulsalam and the other selected officials will undergo further training and preparation to ensure that they are ready for the demands of the tournament.
Key points
- Abiola Kasimu Abdulsalam is the first Nigerian centre referee to officiate at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 25 years.
- Abdulsalam was selected from a pool of officials from 36 member associations.
- The FIFA U-17 World Cup will take place in Qatar, with the exact dates to be announced by FIFA.
