Two Nigerian referees, Kazzim Abiola and Samuel Pwadutakam, have been chosen by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to participate in an upcoming pre-competition training and evaluation program for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
This prestigious training, set to take place from December 4th to December 9th in Cairo, Egypt, will bring together referees from across Africa as they prepare for one of the continent’s major tournaments.
The selection of Abiola and Pwadutakam is a significant achievement, not only for the officials themselves but also for Nigeria’s presence in African football.
Both referees have shown consistent professionalism, dedication, and performance, which have earned them recognition by CAF.
Their participation in this training program represents an opportunity to further develop their skills while proudly representing Nigeria on the continental stage.
Kazzim Abiola, who holds a FIFA referee badge, will join the program as a lead referee.
Based in Zamfara, Abiola has an impressive track record in officiating various African competitions, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills across diverse tournament settings.
His expertise in managing high-stakes matches under intense pressure has helped establish his reputation within the African refereeing community.
This upcoming program will offer Abiola the chance to enhance his proficiency in the latest officiating standards and to refine his understanding of CAF’s expectations for the CHAN tournament.
His compatriot, Samuel Pwadutakam, hailing from Adamawa, has been selected as an assistant referee for the program.
For Pwadutakam, this invitation marks his second significant international assignment under CAF’s designation. Known for his agility, quick decision-making, and deep understanding of the game, Pwadutakam’s growth as a referee has been marked by steady progress and dedication.
This program will allow him to gain insights into the latest refereeing technologies and rule updates, equipping him to deliver top-notch officiating in upcoming matches.
CAF’s training and evaluation program aims to equip referees from across the continent with updated knowledge, practical training, and exposure to recent advances in refereeing technology.
Participants will undergo a rigorous schedule that includes theoretical sessions on the latest rules, hands-on practice with new tools and technologies, and scenario-based evaluations to test their judgment and decision-making skills.
This intensive program will serve as a final qualifying step for successful referees who will eventually be appointed to officiate at the 2025 CHAN tournament.
For Abiola and Pwadutakam, this program is more than just training; it is a pivotal step toward officiating in one of Africa’s premier football tournaments.
Their involvement highlights Nigeria’s contribution to the development of refereeing standards on the continent and reaffirms the commitment of Nigerian referees to uphold the integrity of the game. As they embark on this journey in Cairo, both Abiola and Pwadutakam carry with them the hopes and pride of Nigerian football fans eager to see their nation represented at CHAN 2025.
