Nigerian referee Qassim Abdulsallam has earned a prestigious appointment by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as one of the center referees for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). The announcement, made via CAF’s official website on Friday, places Abdulsallam among the elite group of 65 match officials set to officiate the tournament.
A Milestone for Nigerian Officiating
Abdulsallam, the sole Nigerian representative on the list, joins 25 other center referees, 25 assistant referees, and 14 Video Assistant Referees (VAR) officials for the event. His selection underscores his reputation as a distinguished referee, following notable performances in high-stakes matches, including the second leg of the CHAN qualifier between Niger and Côte d’Ivoire held at Stade 26 Mars in Bamako.
As a member of the Zamfara State Referees’ Council, Abdulsallam has been a rising star in African football officiating. His participation in CAF’s rigorous CHAN preparatory course in Cairo in late 2024 further cemented his readiness for the continental stage.
2024 CHAN: A Historic Edition
The 2024 CHAN tournament, the eighth edition of the biennial competition, will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya—a historic first for the championship. Scheduled to run from February 1 to February 28, the event features African players competing exclusively from their domestic leagues, highlighting local talent across the continent.
Nigeria’s Return to CHAN Spotlight
This year’s tournament holds special significance for Nigeria, as the Super Eagles B team secured their place after a six-year absence. The team triumphed over Ghana with a decisive 3-1 victory in the second leg of the final qualifying match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The first leg in Ghana ended in a goalless draw, but the Nigerian side’s dominant performance at home earned them a spot in the prestigious competition.
A Testament to Excellence
Abdulsallam’s inclusion among the CHAN referees is a reflection of his growing stature in African football officiating. His track record includes an invitation to officiate at the WAFU U-20 qualifiers in Togo earlier this year, further showcasing his capability in handling high-pressure matches.
The Confederation of African Football’s trust in Abdulsallam’s abilities not only highlights his personal achievements but also underscores Nigeria’s contribution to the development of football officiating in Africa. As the 2024 CHAN approaches, all eyes will be on Abdulsallam as he takes on this significant responsibility, representing Nigeria on one of the continent’s grandest football stages.
