The Nigerian Handball Federation has praised the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Diko, for what it described as timely and decisive support ahead of the African Men’s Handball Nations Cup scheduled to hold in Kigali, Rwanda.
Speaking during a media briefing, President of the Nigerian Handball Federation, Jibril Saidu, said the intervention of the NSC leadership had been crucial to Nigeria’s early preparations for the continental tournament, despite administrative challenges encountered at the initial stage.
Saidu disclosed that although the federation submitted its documentation later than expected, the NSC chairman moved swiftly to approve requests and release essential support, allowing the national team to enter camp early and begin structured preparations.
According to him, the gesture has boosted morale within the camp and strengthened the federation’s resolve to deliver a strong performance at the championship.
“I urge all team members to give their best and embody the Nigerian spirit of resilience to complement the NSC’s laudable support. We must not relent until we achieve a positive outcome,” Saidu said.
He confirmed that the Nigerian team is already in training camp ahead of the tournament, which comes shortly after the Africa Cup of Nations, adding that preparations have been intense and focused.
The NHF president revealed that the squad includes about seven professional players drawn from top leagues across Europe and North Africa. He noted that two players based in France, regarded among the world’s elite, are part of the team, alongside others plying their trade in Morocco, Turkey and other countries.
“With the quality and experience in camp, I believe we are well prepared for the challenge ahead,” he said.
Saidu explained that the African Handball Nations Cup will also serve as a qualification pathway to major international competitions, making Nigeria’s participation even more significant.
He expressed strong confidence in the team’s chances, pointing out that the players have been in training for over a month and are fully focused on achieving a podium finish at the championship scheduled for January 21 to 31, 2026.
Reaffirming his long-term vision for the sport, Saidu said the federation remains committed to grassroots development, which he described as the foundation for sustainable success in Nigerian handball. He assured Nigerians that despite recent inactivity in the sport, the current leadership is laying the groundwork for a strong revival.
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The Nigerian delegation is expected to depart for Rwanda on January 19, ahead of the tournament’s official kickoff two days later.
The 2026 African Men’s Handball Championship will be the 27th edition of the biennial competition organised by the Confederation of African Handball. It will mark a historic milestone as Rwanda becomes the first East African nation to host the championship.
Beyond continental glory, the tournament will also serve as Africa’s qualifying event for the 2027 World Men’s Handball Championship in Germany, with the top five teams earning automatic tickets.
At the official draw conducted in November 2025, 16 teams were placed into four groups. Nigeria will compete in Group A alongside Algeria, tournament hosts Rwanda and Zambia. Defending champions Egypt headline Group B with Angola, Gabon and Uganda. Group C features Tunisia, Guinea, Cameroon and Kenya, while Group D includes Cape Verde, Morocco, Congo and Benin.
As preparations intensify, expectations are rising that Nigeria’s renewed focus and early planning could translate into a strong showing on the continental stage.
