January 04, (THEWILL) – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has selected Nigerian referee, Qassim Abdulsallam, for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). The appointment places Abdulsallam within an elite group of match officials chosen to oversee the continental competition.
CHAN, which occurs every two years, provides a competitive platform exclusively for African footballers who participate in their domestic leagues. The 2024 edition brings together the continent’s finest local talents, with matches scheduled across Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya from February 1 to February 28, marking the first time three nations will co-host the tournament.
The official roster released by CAF comprises 65 match officials, including 26 centre referees, 25 assistant referees, and 14 Video Assistant Referees (VAR). Abdulsallam stands out among these appointments, being the sole Nigerian representative in the officiating team. His selection follows strong performances in recent competitions, including the CHAN qualifier between Niger and Cote d’Ivoire at Bamako Stade.
Abdulsallam’s credentials include participation in the CHAN preparation course in Cairo during late 2024, alongside his role within the Zamfara State Referees’ Council. Additionally, his experience extends to officiating in the WAFU U-20 qualifiers in Togo, demonstrating his growing influence in African football officiating.
In related developments, Nigeria’s Super Eagles B team has earned their place in the 2024 CHAN tournament. The team’s qualification comes after a commanding 3-1 victory against Ghana at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, following an initial goalless draw in the first leg encounter.
The qualification holds particular significance for Nigerian football, marking the national team’s return to the tournament after a six-year absence. This achievement aligns with the broader development of Nigerian football, both on and off the field, with Abdulsallam’s appointment further enhancing the country’s presence in continental football.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
