Sports
Continental Beach Volleyball Action Heats Up at Jabi Lake with 15 Countries in Attendance
By Joel Ajayi
Jabi Lake in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja, is buzzing with excitement as it plays host to the 2025 U18 African Beach Volleyball Championship, under the auspices of the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB).
The scenic lakeside venue has been transformed with purpose-built, world-class artificial courts, setting a vibrant and professional stage for the tournament. Nigeria is proudly welcoming athletes from 15 African nations, including Morocco, Senegal, Ghana, and others, for this prestigious youth competition.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s kickoff in Abuja, President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation Engr Musa Nimrod, expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to deliver a top-tier event and reaffirmed the country’s ambition to dominate the sport at the youth level.
“Nigeria is ready to showcase excellence—both in hosting and performance. We aim to maintain our dominance in youth beach volleyball across the continent,” Nimrod said.
He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the vision of CAVB President Madam Bouchra Hajij, noting that the country’s hosting of the event reflects its dedication to advancing beach volleyball in Africa.
“So far, so good. I feel very honoured that Nigeria was given the hosting rights. It’s a great challenge, but we are fully prepared.”
“We currently have 15 countries participating. The artificial courts are ready, the sand is high quality, and the facilities look fantastic. Our preparations have been commendable.
“Security and medical arrangements are firmly in place, according to Nimrod, with the National Sports Commission’s medical team on standby and all health protocols including COVID-19 safety measures being observed.
He also acknowledged the support of stakeholders and partners such as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Control Committee, comprising volleyball federation presidents from across Africa.
“Let’s be clear this is beach volleyball, not indoor volleyball. Southern African countries like South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana are very strong in this category. They gave us tough battles during the last championship in Morocco.
“West African countries like Benin Republic, Togo, Senegal, and Ghana also have solid teams. In indoor volleyball, it’s North Africa especially Egypt that dominates. Egypt has blocked our path to the Olympics in the past.”
However, Nimrod believes the tides are turning. He praised Nigeria’s young athletes especially the duo of Esther and Pamela for their recent victories over top teams like Egypt.
“Our girls defeated Egypt, and even though Morocco celebrated after beating us in the semi-finals last time, we’re now fielding even younger players who are performing remarkably well,” he added.
Nimrod noted that Nigeria’s calendar is packed with international engagements. After this championship, Nigerian teams will travel to Burundi for the Beach Volleyball World Tour (Class I), followed by tournaments in Rwanda and The Gambia.
He also highlighted the importance of the sport in the build-up to the Youth Olympic Games in Senegal, where beach volleyball is the only volleyball category represented.
“Our players will be fully engaged until September 9th. And let’s not forget—Nigeria recently qualified for the Beach Volleyball World Championship in Australia. Even the Australian Embassy in Nigeria reached out in surprise and support,” he revealed.
“They’ve met with us, and the Australian Ambassador has scheduled a meeting with our players. Two of our girls will be heading to Australia, and we’re proud of that.”
He concluded by appreciating the support of all contributors to Nigeria’s volleyball success, including the federation’s Grand Patron.
“We’re making waves, and I deeply appreciate the incredible work being done by my mother, our Grand Patron. Her support has been immense.”
With high expectations and rising momentum, the 2025 U18 African Beach Volleyball Championship promises not just fierce competition, but a showcase of emerging talent and Africa’s growing prominence in global beach volleyball.
Sports
“Aderonke Atoyebi Wins Big in Denmark, Inspires Global Recognition for Nigerian Women in Sports
Joel Ajayi
Nigeria’s own Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has brought immense pride to the nation after being named the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year at a ceremony held in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organizations that use sports and physical activity as tools for social change, inclusion, and empowerment across the globe. This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, spotlighting outstanding figures who have transformed their communities through the power of sports.
Atoyebi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment has made her a prominent voice in the sports-for-development space. Through her advocacy and leadership, she continues to demonstrate how sports can serve as a bridge for education, unity, and hope—especially among young women in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the recognition, Atoyebi received a €3,000 cash prize along with the global visibility that accompanies the prestigious ISCA honour.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement, dedicating the recognition to her team and everyone who has supported her journey.
> “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” Atoyebi said. “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”
Atoyebi’s global recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence in the global dialogue around sports, development, and women’s empowerment. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of African women to believe that with passion, dedication, and purpose, they too can create lasting change.
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