Nigerian Referee Aweng Solomon Maram Dies After Collapsing During Fitness Test in Abuja
Nigerian football refereeing has been thrown into mourning following the death of Plateau State referee Aweng Solomon Maram, who collapsed during a pre-season fitness test in Abuja on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
Maram reportedly lost consciousness while participating in an endurance running exercise at the Main Bowl of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, as referees underwent mandatory physical assessments ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
According to an eyewitness, Alhaji Ali Mellah, Maram had completed approximately 11½ laps of the required 12-lap endurance test when he collapsed, with about 75 metres remaining.
Mellah stated that the medical team at the stadium immediately responded and administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in an attempt to revive him.
“Maram ran up to 11½ laps and collapsed during the endurance test at the National Stadium, Abuja Main Bowl. He had almost completed the required 12 laps, with only about 75 metres remaining,” Mellah recounted.
He further confirmed that Maram was later transported to the National Hospital, Abuja, where he was pronounced dead.
The official cause of death has not yet been disclosed at the time of this report.
The fitness assessment formed part of pre-season preparations aimed at evaluating the physical readiness of referees and assistant referees ahead of the new campaign.
Maram’s passing has sparked widespread grief within the refereeing community, particularly among officials who were present during the exercise and members of the Plateau State football family.
Aweng Solomon Maram was widely regarded by colleagues as a disciplined, respectful, and well-liked match official.
His death has also renewed concerns regarding the welfare provisions and medical preparedness available to referees during high-intensity fitness evaluations.
