In line with its commitment to informing and educating sports stakeholders, ZazaMedia.com.ng presents a comprehensive introduction to the newly elected board of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN). Despite the growing popularity of handball across the country, many players, coaches, fans, sponsors and stakeholders are not fully aware of the individuals entrusted with the responsibility of directing the affairs of the federation. This article aims to bridge that gap by unveiling the new leadership team and highlighting the mandate of the federation.
The New HFN Board Members
At the helm of the federation is Mr. Jibril Saidu Ojih (FNIQS), who currently serves as the President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria. A seasoned professional and administrator, Mr. Ojih brings leadership, experience and a renewed vision focused on grassroots development, professionalism and international competitiveness for Nigerian handball.
Assisting him is the Vice-President, Otunba Sylvester Ikuejamoye, whose wealth of administrative experience and passion for sports development is expected to strengthen governance and strategic planning within the federation.
Zonal Representatives
To ensure inclusiveness and balanced representation across the country, the HFN board comprises zonal representatives from different geopolitical zones:
These representatives are tasked with driving handball development at zonal levels, identifying talents, and ensuring effective communication between the federation and the grassroots.
Technical and Athlete Representation
The technical direction of Nigerian handball is under the supervision of Coach Bala Mohammed Khalid, who serves as the Technical Director (Coach Planner) of HFN. His role is pivotal in shaping coaching structures, technical programs, and long-term player development strategies.
The voice of active athletes is represented by Mr. Telle Aliyu Dada, the Athlete Representative on the HFN Board, ensuring that players’ welfare, concerns and professional growth remain central to policy decisions.
Women, Institutional and International Representation
In promoting gender balance and inclusivity, the board includes key representatives from women’s and institutional bodies:
Simkat John – Nigeria Association of Women in Sports (NAWIS) Representative
Their presence underscores the federation’s commitment to women participation, international collaboration, and institutional support.
Sponsors and Administration
Recognizing the importance of funding and partnerships, Hon. Dr. Kayode Opeifa serves as the Philanthropist/Sponsors Representative on the board, a role expected to attract investments and sponsorship opportunities critical to the growth of the sport.
The administrative engine of the federation is managed by Madam Monica Otumala, the Secretary of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, who oversees day-to-day operations, documentation, and coordination of federation activities.
About the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN)
The Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) is the official governing body responsible for the administration, promotion and development of handball in Nigeria. The federation is saddled with the responsibility of managing the affairs of the sport at all levels, including national teams, domestic competitions and grassroots development.
HFN’s core objective is to promote and develop handball across Nigeria, ensuring that the sport thrives both locally and internationally. To achieve this, the federation organizes national tournaments, leagues and championships aimed at preparing Nigerian teams and athletes for continental and global competitions. It also conducts domestic events and development programs to nurture young talents and expand the sport’s reach.
The federation operates as an affiliate of the International Handball Federation (IHF) and has been a registered member since 1974, a testament to its long-standing role in global handball governance. Over the years, HFN has continued to align its programs with international standards. Notably, the federation organized a camping programme for Under-18 and Under-20 players ahead of the African qualifiers for the 2018 IHF competition held in the Niger Republic, demonstrating its commitment to youth development and international exposure.
A New Era for Nigerian Handball
With this new board in place, stakeholders are optimistic about a renewed era for handball in Nigeria—one driven by transparency, technical excellence, grassroots growth and stronger international presence. As the leadership settles into office, players, coaches, fans, sponsors and enthusiasts will be watching closely, hopeful that Nigerian handball will reach greater heights under this new administration.
ZazaMedia.com.ng will continue to monitor and report developments within the Handball Federation of Nigeria as the board begins its journey of shaping the future of the sport nationwide.
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