Sports
Sub-Lieutenant Bitrus Confident of Podium Finish at African Volleyball Championship
By Joel Ajayi
Sub-Lieutenant Jummai Bitrus has expressed strong confidence that Nigeria’s senior women’s volleyball team can secure a podium finish at the forthcoming African Women’s Volleyball Championship as preparations continue under newly appointed Technical Adviser, Ryan Masajedi.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with New National Star, the experienced player said the team has quickly settled into camp and is fully focused on achieving success at the continental competition.
According to Bitrus, the atmosphere in camp has been positive, with players adapting well to the training programme and working hard towards their common objective.
“We’ve been in camp for about two or three days, and everything has gone smoothly. The atmosphere has been excellent, and our preparations are progressing well without any issues,” she said.
She emphasized that the team’s ambition goes beyond participation, insisting that finishing among Africa’s top three remains their ultimate target.
“Our goal is to achieve a higher ranking and finish on the podium. That is our target, and we are working hard every day to make it a reality. Anything less is not what we are aiming for,” Bitrus stated.
The seasoned player also praised the appointment of Iranian coach Ryan Masajedi, describing him as a globally respected volleyball expert whose experience will strengthen the national team.
“We’re excited to work with our new Technical Adviser. He is highly respected globally and has achieved a lot in volleyball. We believe his experience will positively influence the team, and we’re ready to support him with total commitment to achieve success together,” she added.
Reflecting on her career, Bitrus said volleyball has shaped her life by keeping her physically, mentally and emotionally strong while creating opportunities beyond the court.
She encouraged young girls to embrace the sport with determination, urging them not to be discouraged by criticism or stereotypes.
“Stay focused, remain disciplined and never give up. Believe in yourself, work hard and success will come through dedication and perseverance,” she advised.
With confidence high and preparations gathering momentum, Nigeria’s women’s volleyball team will be aiming to translate their optimism into a podium finish at the African Women’s Volleyball Championship.
Sports
YellowGreens Thrash The Gambia by 160 Runs in Dominant Display
Joel Ajayi
Selim Salau’s century and a breathtaking late assault from Isaac Okpe powered Nigeria to a dominant opening victory at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C in Abuja.
Nigeria’s senior men’s national cricket team, the YellowGreens, made a resounding start to their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C campaign, defeating The Gambia by 160 runs at the NCF Oval 2 in Abuja on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Nigeria produced a formidable total of 262 for one in their allotted 20 overs, setting The Gambia a daunting target of 263 runs.
The innings was anchored by an outstanding century from Selim Salau, who remained unbeaten on 105 off 58 deliveries, striking 12 fours and three sixes. Isaac Danladi provided excellent support with an impressive 86 off 48 balls, including seven fours and four sixes, as the pair laid the foundation for Nigeria’s commanding total.
Isaac Okpe then delivered a sensational finishing assault, smashing an unbeaten 56 off just 16 deliveries, with three fours and six sixes. His remarkable strike rate of 350.00 propelled Nigeria beyond the 260-run mark and put the hosts firmly in control.
The Gambia faced an uphill battle in their chase and were eventually bowled out for 102 in 17.2 overs, handing Nigeria a comprehensive 160-run victory.
The result marked an emphatic opening statement from the YellowGreens as they began their campaign on home soil with an impressive all-round performance.
The victory also provides Nigeria with valuable momentum in a six-team competition featuring hosts Nigeria, The Gambia, Uganda, Zambia, Lesotho and Mozambique. With the teams competing in a round-robin format, the top two sides will progress to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final in 2027.
Nigeria will look to build on this commanding start as the YellowGreens continue their pursuit of one of the two available qualification places, with their next fixture against Zambia scheduled for Wednesday, 21 October, at the NCF Oval 1 in Abuja.
Final Score
Nigeria: 262/1 (20 overs)
The Gambia: 102 all out (17.2 overs)
Result: Nigeria won by 160 runs.
Key Performers
Selim Salau — 105 not out off 58 balls
Isaac Danladi — 86 off 48 balls
Isaac Okpe — 56 not out off 16 balls
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