THISDAYonline

Eminent Sports administrators last Saturday converged in Calabar to join the Life Vice President of the Confedration of African Football (CAF), Etubom Oyo Orok Oyo to celebrate his 80th birthday and the launch of a book "Views and Visions of Africa's Foremost Football Administrator."

The personalities which include, Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke, Chief Shola Rhodes (SAN), Chief Nathaniel Idowu, while the FIFA president, Joseph Blatter sent a goodwill message

Duke who showered encomiums on the CAF Life Vice President described him as "a high icon that made the state and the nation proud as he contributed immensely to the development of football not only in the country but also in the continent".

He commended Oyo who is also called "Mr. Football" for his untiring efforts which have placed Nigeria at the football world map.

Blatter in his message to Oyo stated "We shall always be grateful for your contribution to our sport and the good of the game. Let me extend my best wishes to you for your continued good health and happiness."

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Shola Rhodes (SAN) paid a glowing tributes to the renowned Sports administrator and noted that the people who came far and near were there to honour "our worthy Sports ambassador."

Meanwhile the FIFA merit award winner, has decried the fallen standards of refereeing in the country, insisting ``it is the factor responsible for their present poor rating by world Soccer governing body''.

Oyo, noted that the country's referees were simply ``not good enough''.

The former Secretary-General of the Nigerian Football Association (NFA) for 14 years, noted that about a decade ago, FIFA registered seven Nigerian referees who featured in some big matches. ``But now, who cares to recognise them?''.

According to him, the criteria being currently used in their selection appear dubious and many of the old ones tended to be biased when officiating matches involving their favoured clubs or outrightly collecting gratification to influence outcome of matches.