Super 8 Playoff: NNL Hails Referees As Onigbinde Apologises Over Post-match Remarks

Nigeria National League (NNL) has expressed its satisfaction with the officiating during the ongoing Super 8 playoffs.

NNL chairman George Aluo praised the young referees for their performance and urged them to maintain their high standards until the conclusion of the competition.

“These young referees have done an excellent job. Many of them received monthly awards during the regular season, and we have brought them here to demonstrate their capabilities again—and they have not disappointed,” Aluo commented. “I believe they will continue this standard until the final day on 12 July.”

In a related development, Coach Akinade Onigbinde, the technical adviser of Doma United FC, has apologised over remarks he made fafter his team’s 2-1 defeat to Yobe Desert Stars FC during the NNL Promotional Playoffs in Asaba.

In a statement released yesterday, Coach Onigbinde clarified that his comments during the post-match press conference had been misquoted and misinterpreted.

He expressed regret over any misunderstandings that may have arisen and offered an unreserved apology for the resulting controversy.

“I want to sincerely apologise for my actions following the post-match press conference interview,” Onigbinde stated. “I extend my sincere appreciation to the organisers, and I take full responsibility for the outcome of the match.”

The defeat has placed Doma United FC in a precarious position as they head into their final group match against Barau FC of Kano—a game that will determine their promotion prospects to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) for the 2026 season.

Known for his passionate approach to football, Coach Onigbinde expressed optimism about his team’s ability to recover and strive for promotion. “I am an advocate of results, and with the strength of my club and the resilience of our chairman, I believe we will overcome all challenges in our final match,” he added.

Currently, Yobe Desert Stars and Osun United are leading Group A and Group B respectively, with the final group matches scheduled for Thursday.