By Olusegun Folarin

The Chairman of Remo Stars Football Club, Mr Kunle Soname has proposed a structured, performance-based weekly reward system for referees as a way to restore credibility and improve standards in the domestic league.

Speaking with Journalists in Ikenne, Mr Soname expressed concern over the persistent officiating failures that had continue to undermine the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL,

He noted that the referees operated under enormous pressure with little motivation, inadequate welfare, and limited recognition for good performances which he said had contributed to inconsistent and controversial officiating.

He explained that in the proposed performance-based assessment system, referees would be independently evaluated after every match adding that Officials who demonstrate consistency, sound judgment, and strict adherence to the Laws of the Game would be rewarded, while repeated poor performances would attract corrective measures, including retraining.

Mr Soname also expressed concern over Nigeria’s declining presence on the continental refereeing stage, noting that the last time a Nigerian referee officiated at the Africa Cup of Nations was in Ghana in 2008.

He argued that poor welfare and irregular payment of match allowances make referees vulnerable to external influence, a long-standing concern in Nigerian football.

According to him, consistent incentives and prompt payments would allow officials to focus fully on professionalism and career development.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi