The Nigeria Football Referees\' Association (NFRA) has announced the death of its President, Sani Zubairu, who passed away early Tuesday at the National Hospital Abuja.

Zubairu, a retired FIFA referee, was described as a towering figure in Nigerian football officiating, whose contributions spanned decades of service to the referees’ body and the wider football community.

In a statement signed by the Deputy President of the association, Kelechi Mejuobi, the NFRA expressed deep sorrow over his passing, noting that his wealth of experience and leadership would be sorely missed at a critical time for the development of refereeing in Nigeria.

Mejuobi described the late Zubairu as a quintessential leader, mentor and dedicated professional who maintained strong relationships across the football ecosystem. He noted that the deceased played a pivotal role in fostering unity, cohesion and growth within the association during his tenure.

Zubairu also served in key capacities within the Nigeria Football Federation, including as Head of the Refereeing Unit and Secretary of the NFF Referees Committee, where he contributed significantly to policy and structural development in football officiating.

The NFRA said his death represents a major loss not only to Nigerian referees but to the global football fraternity.

According to the association, his remains will be laid to rest later on Tuesday in Bauchi, in accordance with Islamic rites.

The statement was issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the NFRA, Chukwudi Ejimofor.

Zubairu is remembered for his enduring legacy of service, leadership and commitment to the advancement of football refereeing in Nigeria.