Abiola Kasimu Abdulsalam, a 34-year-old Nigerian referee, has been chosen as one of 81 officials for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup tournament in Qatar. He is the only centre referee from Nigeria and one of four from Africa to make the list. The selection also includes eight assistant referees from Africa. Abdulsalam's inclusion marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his skills and expertise on the international stage.
Abdulsalam is the second Nigerian to be selected as a centre referee in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup history, ending a 25-year wait for Nigeria. Born in Zamfara, he has built a reputation on the continent with duties in two CAF Under-17 AFCON tournaments and regional WAFU matches. His experience and expertise have earned him recognition, and he has also been selected to officiate the upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifier between Cameroon and Comoros.
The Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, Pierluigi Collina, praised the selected officials, stating that they are a set of the most promising FIFA officials available. He emphasized that the officials were chosen not only for their performances but also for their ability to work as part of an international team and meet the demands of a major FIFA tournament. Collina highlighted the importance of giving talented match officials the opportunity to develop in a demanding international environment.
The selection of Abdulsalam bucks the trend of the absence of Nigerian officials from major FIFA tournaments. He was the only Nigerian referee selected to officiate at the 2025 CHAN tournament and has continued to retain his FIFA license badge as an international referee since 2022. Abdulsalam's annual evaluation has ensured his continued eligibility to officiate at high-level international matches.
Abdulsalam's achievement is a significant milestone for Nigerian football, demonstrating the country's ability to produce top-class referees. His selection for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup tournament provides an opportunity for him to showcase his skills on a global platform. The tournament will feature a new generation of football talent, and Abdulsalam's inclusion will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the event.
The FIFA Under-17 World Cup tournament in Qatar will feature 81 officials, including Abdulsalam, who have been chosen for their exceptional skills and expertise. The tournament is expected to be a premier event, showcasing the talents of young footballers from around the world. Abdulsalam's participation will not only reflect positively on Nigerian football but also demonstrate his ability to work alongside top-class officials.
Abdulsalam's historic selection has sparked widespread excitement and pride among Nigerians, who are eager to see him make a positive impact at the tournament. As he prepares to take the field, Abdulsalam will undoubtedly carry the hopes and expectations of a nation on his shoulders. With his skills, expertise, and experience, he is poised to make a lasting impression at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup tournament.
Key points
- Nigerian referee Abiola Kasimu Abdulsalam selected for FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, breaking 25-year logjam of non-Nigerian referees.
- Abdulsalam is the second Nigerian to be selected as a centre referee in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup history.
- The selection of Abdulsalam demonstrates Nigeria's ability to produce top-class referees.
