Fadele Okiki-Jesu Joshua, one of the three nominees for the prestigious 2024 Osun State Football Association Referee of the Year award, has earned recognition for his remarkable contributions to football officiating. A Computer Engineering graduate from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Okiki-Jesu has long been a respected figure in the refereeing community.
During his time at FUTA, he was deeply involved in sports, serving as the director of sports for the National Institute of Electrical Engineering Students and as the chairman of the FUTA Referee Association. His leadership and expertise in the Osogbo Referee Council and beyond have set him apart as a standout official.
While his technical skills as a referee are indisputable, it is his emotional intelligence and ability to connect with players and coaches that truly distinguish him. Okiki’s approachable nature and calm demeanor, especially in high-pressure situations, have earned him a reputation as “one of the friendliest officials” in the game. His work with junior players, helping them better understand the game and managing heated moments with coaches, has garnered widespread praise.
In a recent interview with Futball Naija, Okiki-Jesu shared that his passion for football and the fairness of the game drove him to become a referee. With a personal motto of “fair play always,” his dedication to upholding integrity on the field is evident in his approach to every match.
Fadele Okiki-Jesu Joshua’s nomination for the Referee of the Year award is a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the sport and the positive impact he continues to have on the Osun football community.
