In a move that sets the pace for officiating standards in Nigerian football, the Ijebu-Ode Football Referees’ Society has taken a major step forward in professional development with a high-level seminar focused on the newly revised Laws of the Game for the 2025/2026 football season.
The seminar, held at the iconic Dipo Dina International Stadium, was themed “Game On, New Rules In: Understanding the 2025/2026 IFAB Changes,” and brought together a cross-generational mix of referees, ex-officials, football stakeholders, and analysts in a show of proactive engagement with the latest global regulatory updates from the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
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Led by Society Chairman, Rtd. Ref. Aregbesola Akinola Jessey, the seminar emphasized knowledge-sharing, unity, and modern officiating standards as core values for local referees, many of whom are preparing to feature in top-tier leagues and competitions across Nigeria.
“We cannot afford to lag behind,” Jessey said in his opening remarks. “As the game evolves, so must we—technically, mentally, and ethically. Today, we strengthen our readiness for what lies ahead.”
The seminar was rich in content and symbolism. Notably, veteran referees and society elders made significant contributions, both financially and morally, reinforcing a culture of mentorship and intergenerational unity. Their presence underscored the society’s strong network and deep-rooted values.
A touching message came from the society’s Grand Patron, who, despite being based in Canada, sent a heartfelt goodwill address urging members to stay professional, focused, and proud flag bearers of the whistle.
Technical highlights of the day included in-depth presentations by Ref. Kazzim Ajibola and NPFL official Ref. Oluwatobi Mojeed. Mojeed’s session stood out as a practical and interactive breakdown of the new IFAB rule changes, drawing on real-life scenarios from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Attendees engaged in lively Q&A sessions covering contentious issues like handball interpretations, offside resets, VAR usage, and restart protocol amendments.
“This isn’t just a seminar—it’s a movement. We’re equipping ourselves to be at the forefront of modern football,” said Mojeed.
Aside from technical enlightenment, the gathering also doubled as a social bonding opportunity, with food, laughter, and photographs adding a communal flair to the day.
In a show of digital inclusivity, full recordings of the event were uploaded to the society’s official Facebook page for members who couldn’t attend in person.
The event marks a pivotal moment for the Ijebu-Ode Football Referees’ Society as they position themselves as one of Nigeria’s most proactive and organized officiating bodies heading into the new season.
With professionalism, clarity, and commitment to learning, the referees are not just reacting to changes—they’re leading the charge.
Quick Facts:
Event: Referees’ Seminar on 2025/2026 IFAB Laws of the Game
Host: Ijebu-Ode Football Referees’ Society
Venue: Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ogun State
Theme: “Game On, New Rules In”
Lead Facilitators: Ref. Kazzim Ajibola, Ref. Oluwatobi Mojeed (NPFL)
Objective: Equip referees with up-to-date law interpretation skills
As Nigerian football enters a new season, the Ijebu-Ode referees have signaled their intent: to be torchbearers of excellence, guardians of fair play, and proud interpreters of the game’s evolving rules.
