A young Nigerian football referee, Awang Solomon Maram, has reportedly died after collapsing during a fitness test at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Tuesday.
Maram was among 25 promising young referees undergoing development with the aim of producing future Nigerian international match officials. He reportedly became unwell during the exercise before later passing away.
His death has thrown the refereeing community into mourning, with the African Referees University expressing shock over his sudden passing and describing him as a young and promising official.
According to the institution, Maram joined the African Referees University about a year ago and had demonstrated considerable promise while pursuing a career in football officiating.
The tragedy was particularly poignant as Maram reportedly got married just three weeks ago. He and his wife had yet to have children before his untimely death.
In a statement mourning his passing, the African Referees University described Maram as a valued member of its community and extended condolences to his family, friends and fellow referees.
While the exact cause of death was not immediately available, the incident has renewed concerns about comprehensive medical screening, appropriate fitness-test protocols and immediate emergency support during high-intensity sporting activities.
Following the tragedy, fellow referees are expected to accompany Maram’s remains to his ancestral home for burial, while the African Referees University said it would send representatives to attend the burial and pay their final respects.
