Two highly regarded Nigerian referees, Abdusalam Kazzim and Mahmood M. Yakubu, have been appointed to officiate at the 2024 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations WAFU B Qualifiers, joining a select group of match officials from the West African Zone B.
Both referees are FIFA-accredited, a testament to their experience and professionalism in officiating at the highest levels of football.
Abdusalam Kazzim, a prominent and well-respected referee hailing from Zamfara, has garnered considerable recognition for his excellent performance in numerous Confederation of African Football (CAF) tournaments.
With a reputation for fairness, precision, and a deep understanding of the game, Kazzim has become a fixture in African football circles, trusted to officiate high-stakes matches at various levels.
His selection as a center referee for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations WAFU B Qualifiers underscores his standing as one of Nigeria’s top referees.Joining him is Mahmood M. Yakubu, a fast-rising official from Bauchi, who has been making a name for himself in recent years. Yakubu, who will serve as an assistant referee for the tournament, has shown exceptional promise with his performances in continental competitions.
His consistent application of the rules, alongside his sharp decision-making, has earned him opportunities to officiate in top-tier matches across Africa.
As a young official, Yakubu is quickly ascending through the ranks of African refereeing, and his inclusion in the WAFU B Qualifiers is yet another milestone in his flourishing career.
The presence of both Kazzim and Yakubu in this prestigious tournament highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in international football officiating.
Their roles will be critical in ensuring that the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations WAFU B Qualifiers is conducted with the highest standards of fairness and professionalism, contributing to the development of young football talents across the West African sub-region.
