The Nigeria Football Referees' Association (NFRA) has called on organisers of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), state football associations and participating clubs to create a safer and more conducive environment for quality officiating in the domestic league.

The appeal follows a series of unsavoury incidents during and after recent league matches, in which referees have reportedly been subjected to attacks and unruly conduct by club officials and supporters.

Condemning the attacks on match officials, the referees' body urged football stakeholders to adopt proactive measures to prevent further incidents and safeguard the integrity of the game.

Acting President of the NFRA, Sir Kelechi Mejuobi, said the renewed trend of attacks on referees made it necessary for stakeholders responsible for organising and managing domestic football competitions to prioritise preventive measures rather than waiting to respond after incidents have occurred.

Mejuobi assured that referees appointed to handle matches had been directed to maintain the highest standards of professionalism by applying fair and firm officiating in line with the Laws of the Game.

However, he stressed that other stakeholders must also take responsibility for ensuring the safety and protection of match officials at different league centres.

"While the association acknowledges the punishments meted to offending teams where referees are attacked, proactive measures to ensure protection of match officials should be sacrosanct. Let's see what can be done to prevent the attacks on referees rather than punishment after the victims must have suffered harm and injuries after the action," Mejuobi stated.

The NFRA expressed hope that the sanctions imposed by the NPFL on clubs and individuals found culpable would serve as a deterrent to others.

The association, however, emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and promote a safe environment for referees to discharge their responsibilities without intimidation or fear.

The referees' body also reminded appointed match officials of their responsibility to serve as worthy ambassadors of the profession by maintaining discipline, integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

It further urged referees to ensure that their decisions and conduct remain consistent with the Laws of the Game and the competition's regulations.

The NFRA disclosed that it was working with relevant authorities and exploring internal mechanisms to strengthen the safety of referees before, during and after matches.

The association reiterated that protecting match officials requires a collective commitment from league organisers, state football associations, clubs, supporters and other stakeholders, noting that the safety of referees remains essential to the credibility and smooth running of Nigerian football.