Engineer Musa Nimrod, President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), has lauded the remarkable growth of beach volleyball across the country, asserting that a new generation of talent is poised to sustain the sport’s momentum at the highest continental and global levels.
Speaking at the conclusion of the 2026 Open Beach Volleyball Tour/Star Championship in Kaduna, Nimrod commended the organisers, technical officials, and young athletes for their unwavering commitment and competitive spirit. He noted that surging public interest, amplified significantly via social media, is a testament to the sport’s rapidly rising profile.
The championship, he stated, has successfully unearthed a competitive pool of emerging players capable of seamlessly succeeding the current national team stalwarts—proof that the federation’s grassroots development programme is yielding tangible results.
Zone 3 and Continental Breakthrough
Nimrod confirmed that Nigeria is fully prepared for the forthcoming Zone 3 Nations Beach Volleyball Championship, with both the men’s and women’s teams already securing qualification for continental competitions. Despite prevailing financial constraints, he assured that the national teams remain in camp and are receiving adequate preparation for international engagements.
In a strategic breakthrough, the NVBF president—who also serves as Vice President of the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB)—announced plans for the launch of an African Beach Volleyball Tour. Endorsed by the continental leadership, the initiative will involve five countries, including Nigeria, with Abuja positioned to host a leg once the competition calendar is finalised.
Infrastructure and Grassroots Gains
On domestic facilities, Nimrod disclosed that the construction of a dedicated beach volleyball court in Abuja is advancing swiftly, with the project nearing completion following a recent satisfactory inspection.
He attributed these strides to sustained grassroots investment and strategic partnerships with government agencies. Crucially, he highlighted a tenfold increase in professional exports: over 40 Nigerian volleyball players are now plying their trade overseas—a monumental leap from the mere three to five recorded eight years ago. He particularly lauded the achievements of female athletes, many of whom are currently competing in leagues across Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Commitment to Future Growth
Reaffirming the federation’s long-term vision, Nimrod stressed that continued investment in competitions, infrastructure, and talent identification remains pivotal to securing a bright future for Nigerian volleyball. “The spirit among players and officials is encouraging,” he noted, vowing to create sustained opportunities for young talents to ensure the nation’s enduring presence on the world stage.
