The South-East Zonal Representative on the board of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, Onyebuchi Emmanuel Asogwa, has praised the standard of organization and infrastructure at the National Under-12 and Under-15 Handball Championship, describing the tournament as a significant boost for grassroots sports development in Nigeria.
Speaking during a media chat with journalists on the sidelines of the championship in Umuahia, Asogwa expressed satisfaction with the quality of facilities and logistics put in place by the host state, noting that the competition reflects the growing commitment of sub-national governments to sports.
He commended the Abia State Government for creating a conducive environment for athletes and officials, highlighting improvements in road infrastructure and accommodation arrangements, including the use of the NYSC camp in Igbere to host participating teams.
“I am fulfilled and happy with what is happening in Abia State, particularly with this tournament. The facilities and general organization are commendable,” he stated.
The HFN board member also spoke on broader development across the South-East region, particularly in Enugu State, where he noted visible progress in infrastructure and sports development.
While acknowledging Abia State’s performance, Asogwa emphasized that Enugu State remains well-positioned to host the forthcoming National Sports Festival, expressing confidence in the state government’s ability to deliver.
“Our governor is a ‘talk-and-do’ leader who has consistently fulfilled his promises. Based on ongoing developments, Enugu State is ready to host a successful National Sports Festival,” he said.
Addressing concerns over the absence of Enugu teams at the championship, Asogwa clarified that the situation was due to logistical and administrative challenges rather than lack of preparation.
According to him, the teams had been fully camped and prepared in Nsukka ahead of the tournament. However, the inability to secure final approval from the state government—owing to the governor’s official engagement abroad—prevented their participation.
“It was purely a logistical issue. The teams were ready and in camp, but we could not get the necessary approval before the governor traveled. It is unfortunate because the young players would have enriched the competition,” he explained.
A key highlight of the media interaction was the federation’s renewed drive to eliminate age falsification in youth handball competitions.
Asogwa disclosed that the Handball Federation of Nigeria has introduced stricter screening mechanisms to ensure compliance with age categories, stressing that the initiative is critical to safeguarding the future of young athletes.
He warned coaches and officials against engaging in “mago-mago” practices, noting that falsifying ages can create long-term challenges for players, particularly in official documentation processes such as academic admissions.
“We are determined to ensure that Under-12 truly means Under-12, and Under-15 remains Under-15. This is the only way to build credibility and reposition Nigerian sports over the next few years,” he emphasized.
