Nigeria Targets Continental Glory as Volleyball Team Gears Up for Morocco Tournament
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
http://www.newsportng.com.ng As the Africa Continental Beach Volleyball Tournament draws near, Nigeria’s national beach volleyball team is brimming with confidence and is eyeing a strong showing when the competition kicks off in Morocco on June 23, 2025.
Speaking to sports writers at the team’s camp at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna on Thursday, Head Coach Kayode Ajilore assured Nigerians of a commendable performance, describing the team as well-prepared and injury-free.
“The training has been excellent. The players are focused, determined, and injury-free. Nigeria is a major force in beach volleyball, and I believe we are the team to beat,” Ajilore said.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria’s dominance in past regional tournaments would reflect once again in Morocco.
“With God on our side, we are aiming for victory,” he added.
Also speaking, team chaperone Florence Yori revealed that the players have spent the last three weeks in camp, thanks to the full support of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) President, Engineer Musa Nimrod.
“The team is in good health. Training takes place twice daily, and the weather has been favourable. The players are well-fed and properly looked after. All arrangements, including accommodation and hygiene, are being handled by the federation president,” she explained.
She expressed confidence in the team’s chances, adding, “If they stick to their training and follow instructions, I am sure they will make the country proud.”
Augustine Uche, a player on the men’s team, also voiced optimism about their prospects.
“We’ve been here for over two weeks, preparing intensely. We know the teams from Morocco, Gambia, Kenya, and Rwanda will be there, but we are ready. We respect them, but we don’t fear any of them,” he said.
He affirmed the strength of the coaching crew, saying, “We have a capable coach who has drilled us well. We are prepared to represent Nigeria excellently.”
The female team captain, Esther Mbah Onyinye, said the players are mentally and physically ready for the challenge.
“Our preparations have gone smoothly. With the training we’ve received, we are confident of putting up a good performance,” she said.
Another male player, Emenike Collins Ezike, who plays for Nigeria Customs, said the focus is not just on participation, but on winning the tournament and qualifying for the World Championship.
“Our expectation is to bring home the trophy. The training has been intense, and we are highly motivated. Morale is high in the camp,” he said.
The team is expected to depart Nigeria for Morocco on Sunday.
