Nigerian-born Mr. Obi Ojimadu, resident in Dublin, Ireland, has becomes a FAI/FIFA recognised referee in the country of his abode.
This was contained in an undated letter signed by the Referee Programme Coordinator of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), Mr. Robert Hennessy, addressed to Mr. Ojimadu.
Ojimadu’s feat followed the successful completion of the Football Association of Ireland’s Referee Basic Course.
He has also been issued with the “Garda Vetting clearance”, making him a fully licensed qualified referee.
According to Mr. Hennessy, he has already been allocated to a league within his jurisdiction for the 2024/25 season.
Hennessy stated in the letter: “I am pleased to inform you [of] your successful completion of the Football Association of Ireland’s Referee Basic Course and the Issuing of Garda Vetting clearance.
“You are now a fully licensed Newly Qualified Referee and have been allocated to a league within your area for season 2024/25.
“You have been designated an NQR Category and can officiate at divisions of the league you have been assigned to.
“Enclosed is your FAI Referee Badge, this should be worn by you at all games in which you officiate.
“Your course cert can be found on your FAI Connect profile.”
See Ojimadu’s refereeing paraphernalia, including the approval letter, below:
Hennessy further advised Ojimadu to reach out to the Referees Department for further information, advice or assistance if need arises.
“I would like to welcome you to the Referee Family and wish you an enjoyable and successful career,” he added.
Jubilant Ojimadu breaks the news
On his part, Ojimadu gleefully announced to his friends and well-wishers the recognition as a FAI referee in Ireland.
Taking to his social media handle, he wrote: “Thrilled to announce that I’ve officially become a FAI referee!
“This milestone marks a significant challenge and responsibility.
“I’m excited to contribute to the beautiful game in yet another way and ensure fair play at the highest levels.
“Here’s to new adventures and making each match count.”
Who is Obi Ojimadu?
Obi Ojimadu is a Nigerian citizen who studied in the International Friendship University, Moscow, Russia.
He later migrated to Ukraine where he resided until Russia invaded the country in 2022.
It could be recalled that Russia, on February 24, 2022, launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The invasion, which saw troops and equipment entering from multiple directions, including Belarus, marked a significant escalation of the conflict, leaving residents fleeing in droves.
It attracted widespread international condemnation and economic sanctions imposed on the Russian federation.
Consequent upon the attack, Ojimadu, alongside other residents, migrated to Ireland and settled with his family.
Prior to that, he worked simultaneously at Rotex Ltd and at Shakhtar Social Foundation, all in Ukraine.
Before his advent into foreign land, he went to Emmanuel College in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
He currently lives in Dublin, the capital of Ireland.
His feat as Irish FIFA recognised referee signifies the can-do and never-give-up spirit evident in diaspora Nigerians.
About Football Association of Ireland
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is the governing body for association football in the Republic of Ireland.
It was founded in 1921, with headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, and is affiliated to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
It is also affiliated to the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
IFAB is the organization responsible for creating and maintaining the rules of football, known as Laws of the Game.
FAI is entrusted with responsibilities to oversees all aspects of football in Ireland, including:
- National teams (men’s, women’s, youth)
- League of Ireland (top division)
- Cup competitions (FAI Cup, League Cup)
- Grassroots development, and,
- Referee development.
FAI promotes and develops football in Ireland, from grassroots to international competitions.
Ojimadu becomes the first Nigerian and African to serve on the Referees Department.