The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), , has commended Nigeria’s Under-18 and Under-20 male handball teams following their outstanding performance at the held in Lomé, Togo.
Olopade gave the commendation on Monday while receiving the victorious teams at his office in , describing their double triumph as a significant boost for male sports development in Nigeria.
“Your performance in Togo has shown that handball is a progressive sport that deserves all the support from both the private sector and the sports commission,” he said.
The NSC boss noted that while Nigeria’s female athletes have consistently delivered international success, the recent achievement by the male handball teams signals a positive shift.
“At a time when our women athletes have dominated international success for the country, it is quite refreshing to see our male teams achieving this sort of international success as well,” he added.
Olopade also revealed that his growing interest in the sport was reinforced after witnessing impressive displays at the recent National Sports Festival in . He expressed optimism that Nigeria could soon challenge the long-standing dominance of North African countries in handball with sustained investment and support.
He further praised the leadership of the , particularly its President, , for his commitment to the growth of the sport.
“I want to thank the leadership of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, led by the hardworking President, Jibril Saidu, who has continued to show impressive passion to grow the sport,” Olopade stated.
The Director General assured the federation of the Commission’s full backing as preparations begin for the upcoming continental championship later in the year.
In his response, the HFN President, Jibril Saidu Ojih, expressed appreciation to the NSC for its continued support and recognition, noting that the federation is determined to build on the recent success.
He affirmed that Nigeria would approach the continental championship with the clear objective of emerging champions.
The delegation to the NSC was led by Jibril Saidu Ojih and included Vice-President , Chairman of the Competition Organising Committee , board member , Technical Director , as well as team captains and .
Nigeria’s double victory at the regional tournament underscores the country’s growing stature in handball within the West African sub-region and sets a strong foundation ahead of continental engagements.
