Nigerian Referee Aweng Solomon Dies After Collapsing During National Fitness Test
The Nigerian refereeing community has been thrown into mourning following the death of Plateau State referee Aweng Solomon Maram in Abuja on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
Maram reportedly collapsed while running during the pre-season fitness test for referees and assistant referees ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. He later passed away.
The Plateau State Referees Council (PSRC) confirmed his death in an obituary announcement, describing it as a great loss to the state’s refereeing family, as well as his colleagues, friends and loved ones.
The fitness test was part of the annual pre-season programme organised by the NFF Referees Development Unit to prepare match officials for the new football season.
The programme, which began on August 15, is being held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium and the FIFA Goal Project in Abuja.
The PSRC expressed its condolences to Maram’s family, relatives, friends and the wider refereeing community.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the council said.
Further details about his burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
