Nigeria U-20 assistant coach Abdullahi Biffo has praised the standard of officiating in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), while urging league organisers to maintain their efforts to improve other important areas of the domestic game.
Biffo made the comments after watching Ikorodu City claim a 2-0 victory over Kwara United in their Matchday 8 fixture at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. He said the quality of the match and the performance of the officials pointed to steady progress within the league.
The coach, who observed the game from the stands, commended both teams for their contribution to the contest and said the match officials had maintained a high and professional standard throughout the encounter.
“It is a gradual process of improvement in the league, and we are getting there slowly with time,” Biffo said.
He also highlighted the quality and potential among the players involved, identifying a number of emerging talents who could develop into important figures if they remain focused and continue working on their game.
“For the teams in today’s match, I saw quality players on both sides, upcoming stars, and eagerness in some of the players, which I believe with a little time they will begin to make waves if they continue to build on themselves and remain focused,” he added.
Biffo said the result had been determined by a competitive encounter in which Ikorodu City ultimately held the advantage, with the two-goal margin reflecting their efforts.
“It was a difficult match for both sides, only that Ikorodu City had the edge over Kwara United with the goal margin to complement their efforts,” he concluded.
The former coach’s assessment comes as league organisers continue their rebuilding efforts, with Biffo calling for the same commitment to be applied across the other critical areas of the NPFL.