The Nigerian football community is in deep mourning following the death of Otunba Tade Azeez, former National President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association.
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Among the many tributes pouring in, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye, has paid an emotional homage, celebrating the life and legacy of the late football icon.
Adeboye described Otunba Tade Azeez as far more than a sports administrator, portraying him as a pillar of dedication, love, and commitment to grassroots sports development.
He praised Azeez’s tireless work in promoting football at all levels and his significant impact on the growth of football refereeing in Nigeria.
In his tribute, Adeboye reflected warmly on his personal interactions with Azeez during his tenure as Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association and as President of the Nigerian Football Referees Association. He recalled how every engagement with Azeez was marked by passion, vision, and an inspiring enthusiasm for the beautiful game.
“Otunba Tade Azeez’s love for the game was contagious,” Adeboye noted. “He worked assiduously to ensure the growth and development of football referees in Nigeria, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.”
Adeboye also highlighted Azeez’s leadership qualities, describing him as a visionary and a motivator whose style of leadership left a lasting impression across the Nigerian football landscape.
As he mourned the loss of a friend and mentor, Adeboye offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Azeez’s soul and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and the wider football community.
He emphasized that Otunba Tade Azeez’s memory would continue to inspire and that his contributions to Nigerian sports would never be forgotten.
“May God comfort us all during this difficult time,” Adeboye concluded. “And may the memories of Otunba Tade Azeez continue to motivate us to carry forward his enduring legacy.”
Indeed, through the words of Anthony Adeboye and countless others, the spirit and impact of Otunba Tade Azeez will live on in Nigerian football for many years to come.
