The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) has officially unveiled Japanese volleyball expert Ryan Masajedi as the new technical adviser and head coach of Nigeria’s national volleyball teams, marking a significant step in the federation’s drive to strengthen the sport at both elite and grassroots levels.
The unveiling ceremony was held on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where the federation outlined Masajedi’s immediate responsibilities and long-term development agenda.
NVBF President, Musa Nimrod, said the experienced coach would immediately assume duty with the senior women’s national team as preparations intensify for the 2026 African Nations Championship in Kenya.
He added that Masajedi would also oversee the men’s national team ahead of the continental championship scheduled to be held in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Beyond preparing the senior teams for international competitions, Nimrod explained that the new technical adviser has been tasked with driving the federation’s long-term development strategy by working across the country’s six geopolitical zones to discover emerging talents and mentor local coaches.
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According to him, Masajedi’s assignment extends beyond coaching the national teams, as he will play a central role in strengthening grassroots volleyball and establishing a sustainable pathway for player development nationwide.
Responding after his unveiling, Masajedi thanked the federation for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to dedicate his experience to improving Nigeria’s volleyball fortunes at every level.
The coach said his focus would not be limited to the senior teams but would also include nurturing junior players and building a strong development structure capable of producing future champions.
“I am honoured by this opportunity to work with Nigeria. I will bring my wealth of experience to all the national teams, from the senior teams to the junior categories, and I will do my best to contribute to the growth of volleyball in the country,” Masajedi said.
Masajedi also expressed confidence in the quality of Nigerian volleyball players, describing them as highly talented with enormous potential.
He noted that with proper planning, improved structures and sustained investment in development programmes, Nigeria can become a major force in African and international volleyball.
