It was a day of grit, grace, and glory at the New Jos International Stadium as Plateau State football referees stormed the tracks for their NNL Fitness Test Trials, ahead of the much-anticipated Nigerian National League Referees Seminar and Fitness Test scheduled for Zaria later this month.
The trials, covered exclusively by Trill Times Sports Desk, began with comprehensive medical screenings to ensure all participants were in top condition before proceeding to the short sprints and main heats, a true test of endurance and agility.
First on the track were the female referees, who will represent the state at the Zaria NNL event. In a show of determination and professionalism, all the ladies successfully passed the rigorous fitness evaluation, conducted under strict international timing standards. Their stellar performance drew applause from both officials and spectators who gathered to witness the event.
Not to be outdone, the male referees drawn from both the NPFL and NNL ranks took their turns with commendable performances. Their impressive pace and stamina underscored the Council’s reputation for producing top-class match officials who continue to shine on national and international stages.
Among those present at the stadium were key Council Executives and seasoned refereeing veterans including Baba Joshua Gotom (Council Chairman) Assistant Council Training Officer and NPFL Referee Assessor, Austine Eyorlie; Rtd FIFA Referee Victoria Chuktu (Council Deputy Chairman); Eunice Amallam (Jos North Society Chairman); Tony Ejim (Council Vice Chairman); Datom Yohana (Council Assistant Secretary); and Miri Timnan Nyantau alias M.T.N (Council Treasurer). The officials closely monitored every move, noting the referees’ precision, discipline, and fitness level throughout the trials.
Speaking shortly after the event, Council Chairman, Baba Joshua Gotom, expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the trials. He commended both participants and officials for their dedication, urging the referees to remain focused ahead of the NNL Seminar and Fitness Test in Zaria.
“Plateau State Referees have always been a reference point in football officiating across Nigeria,” Gotom remarked. “I want you all to be proud ambassadors of this Council and ensure a 100% success rate in Zaria.”
The Chairman also used the occasion to announce the commencement of the annual referees’ registration, urging members to pay promptly through their respective societies to maintain good standing with the Council.
In his earlier address, FIFA Musa Dung Davou, the Council’s Training Officer, reminded the referees that excellence extends beyond the tracks. He emphasized the importance of proper diet, rest, and social discipline, noting that these factors greatly influence performance during the upcoming NNL season, which runs from October 29th to November 1st, 2025, in Zaria.
Davou also revealed that plans are underway for a world-class referees’ seminar to further equip Plateau officials with the latest tools and techniques in modern officiating.
One of the most exciting moments of the day was the participation of Kids Referees, who demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and athleticism offering a glimpse of the bright future awaiting Plateau refereeing.
In a gesture that drew appreciation from all present, Council Treasurer, Miri Timnan Nyantau (M.T.N), announced a ₦3,000 feeding token for every Plateau referee participating in the Zaria NNL Fitness Test.
Trill Times News Sports Desk can report that Plateau Referees are fully ready, fit, focused, and fired up for Zaria and beyond.
