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By Maxwell Kumoye
The President of the Nigerian Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, has called for full commitment and support as the Nigerian men’s volleyball team prepares for the 2026 African Cup of Nations final in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Nimrod made these remarks shortly after the team secured qualification for the continental championship, where the eventual winner will also earn Africa’s only qualification ticket to the Los Angeles Olympics.
“We have to gather all our resources to achieve our goal,” Nimrod said.
“Our preparations will intensify in August when the team enters training camp. The camp will help the players reach their peak physical condition and ensure they are fully prepared for the challenge ahead.” The volleyball boss said.
“We know what is at stake because the tournament also serves as a qualifying event for the Los Angeles Olympics. With only one qualifying ticket available, we must do everything we can to give our team the best chance to secure it.”
The NVBF president expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level and assured that the federation will provide all necessary support.
“We remain optimistic and are committed to providing the support necessary for the team to be successful,” he added.
Nimrod also attributed the team’s resurgence to the federation’s long-term investment in youth development, noting that the current senior team is made up of players who progressed through Nigeria’s age-group programme.
“Our current senior players are products of a successful youth development system,” he said.
“These players won back-to-back African Under-19 titles before moving up to Under-21 level. They have grown together over the last six or seven years, and that continuity is now paying off.
“This is the true value of grassroots development. The best way to maintain success is to continue producing talented young players, which is why we are preparing another Under-19 team for the African Championship in Egypt next week.”
Reflecting on lessons from the past, Nimrod said the federation has avoided the mistakes that followed the 2003 African Games by ensuring a smooth transition from youth to senior level.
“One of the biggest mistakes we made after the 2003 All African Games (COJA) was not replacing the aging generation of players. There was no proper transition. Today, that has changed. The boys who were once under-19 players have now entered the senior national team, and they are energetic, talented and perform well.
“We are sure that they will continue to shine in the next championship in Congo. When you build youth, you build a nation. That is the basis of lasting success.” Nimrod concluded.
