Ibrahim Gusau, president of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has praised the officials who oversaw the games on Match Day One of the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Four away victories were recorded on the first day of the 2022–23 NPFL season.

At the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, newcomers Bendel Insurance stunned former champions Akwa United 2-0 to set the tone for the match. Eight-time champions Enyimba also defeated Nasarawa United 2-1.

While Abia Warriors stunned Rangers 2-0 in the Oriental derby, Niger Tornadoes defeated Wikki Tourists 2-0 in Bauchi.

Gusau praised the officials for their efforts, which were evident in the outcomes, and tasked them with continuing to provide reliable officiating throughout the season.

“I am happy with the results, in which so many teams won on away ground, as well as the reports we received from most of the centers concerning the performance of the referees,” Gusau told thenff.com.

“I want to commend the NFF Referees Committee for putting their best foot forward from the beginning and also charge the referees themselves to sustain credible output going forward. "We are determined to ensure that so many things about the League change for the better, and we will not relent in our efforts.”