Over 100 referees from the have concluded a two-day specialized refresher training aimed at enhancing officiating standards ahead of the eighth edition of the , also known as the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament.
The training, held at the Golden Tulip Resort in Onopa, Yenagoa, was organised by the Prosperity Cup Committee in collaboration with the . It combined theoretical sessions on the latest Laws of the Game with practical on-field drills covering positioning, decision-making, match control, and contemporary officiating techniques.
CAF instructor and member Chukwudi Chukwujekwu, who facilitated parts of the training, praised participants’ enthusiasm and described the initiative as “massive” and groundbreaking.
“This is the first time I’m witnessing a tournament where the organisers train referees before the competition begins,” Chukwujekwu said. He highlighted the lasting impact of such programs, citing Rachel Onyekwere, a graduate of an earlier edition who has risen to become one of the state’s leading centre referees, as an example of how pre-competition training improves officiating quality and fair play.
CAF instructor and assessor Felicia Chibugwu also commended the organisers, noting that the updated training should result in noticeably better officiating this season. She expressed particular delight at seeing children aged 8 to 12 among the participants, emphasizing that early engagement would help reduce on-field controversies in the future.
Young referees expressed gratitude to the Bayelsa State government and tournament organisers. Participants Kuote Sinivie, Commander Daniela (15), and Sunny Blessing (15) said the course equipped them with the most current interpretations of the Laws of the Game.
The program concluded with a certificate presentation to all participants. Preparations for the Prosperity Cup continue, with medical personnel training scheduled to begin on Friday, February 20, 2026.
The initiative underscores the tournament’s commitment to professional development, fair play, and the continued growth of grassroots football in Bayelsa State.
