The Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to grassroots development as a member of its Board, Hon. Gbenga Adewusi Arole, presented handballs to the Osun State Handball Association during the ongoing Late Babatunde Olusegun Ojuola Under-12 Handball Championship in Ibadan.
The presentation, which took place at the Lekan Salami Stadium Handball Court, Adamasingba, was received on behalf of Osun State by the Osun State Handball Team Head Coach, Joshua Aogo, amid cheers from young athletes, coaches, and stakeholders in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Arole, who’s the Southwest Zonal Representative on the Board of Handball Federation of Nigeria stressed that youth development remains a central pillar of the Handball Federation of Nigeria under the leadership of its President, Mr. Jubril Ojih.
“Catching them young is one of the major priorities of the Handball Federation of Nigeria under the leadership of our President, Jubril Ojih. When we talk about grassroots handball, it must be backed with action. How do we expect coaches and young teams to grow if they don’t even have basic equipment?” Arole said.
He explained that the donation of handballs to Osun State — alongside similar interventions planned for other states in the Southwest — aligns perfectly with the federation’s long-term vision of rebuilding Nigerian handball from the grassroots.
“These balls are not just for Osun State alone. We are extending this support across the Southwest because grassroots development must be inclusive and deliberate,” he added.
Hon. Arole also used the occasion to commend Bolaji Ojuola, the main sponsor of the championship, for sustaining the legacy of his late father, Babatunde Olusegun Ojuola, through a competition that has already become a strong platform for talent discovery.
“I have spoken personally with Bolaji Ojuola, and he has assured us that this championship will not end here. There will be more editions, and that is very encouraging for the future of handball in our region,” Arole noted.
The HFN Board member further disclosed that plans are already in advanced stages to host a major Southwest handball championship in the coming months, describing it as part of a broader strategy to create more competitive opportunities for young players.
Turning attention to the national scene, Hon. Arole praised the recent efforts of Nigeria’s national teams at the continental level, particularly their performances in Rwanda, while reaffirming the federation’s ambition.
“The HFN President is doing everything within his power to ensure that Nigeria emerges as one of the best handball nations in Africa. With the growing interest in grassroots handball, we are confident that we will continue to build formidable national teams for the future,” he said.
In a passionate appeal, Arole urged Nigerian ex-international handball players across the globe to emulate the example of Bolaji Ojuola by returning home to contribute to the sport’s development.
“Our former internationals have a lot to give. We encourage them to come back home and do something meaningful for the growth of handball in Nigeria. Together, we can take the game to greater heights,” he concluded.
The Late Babatunde Olusegun Ojuola Under-12 Handball Championship continues in Ibadan, serving as a fitting tribute to a man remembered for his dedication to youth development, discipline, and the advancement of handball in Nigeria.
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