NVBF Intensifies Grassroots Volleyball Development, Targets Greater International Success
Oru Leonard
The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development as it intensifies efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness and achieve greater success on the international stage.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, President of the federation, Musa Nimrod, said the NVBF remains focused on discovering and nurturing young talents despite prevailing funding challenges.
According to him, the federation has sustained its grassroots development initiatives through the regular organisation of Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 national championships across the country.
Nimrod disclosed that the grassroots programmes have produced several athletes who are now competing professionally abroad.
“We have players who emerged from our grassroots competitions, and about 40 of them are currently playing professionally in different countries,” he said.
He noted that the federation’s investment in youth development is already yielding results, citing Nigeria’s gold and silver medal performances at the African Youth Championships. He added that many athletes who started through the federation’s grassroots programmes have progressed to professional levels, further boosting Nigeria’s reputation in volleyball.
The NVBF President highlighted the federation’s flagship “Nimrod Six-Sixteen” project, a talent identification and development initiative targeting girls aged 16 and below who are at least six feet tall.
“Three years ago, we launched an Under-17 programme for girls involving 100 players, and this year marks its third edition.
“We provide accommodation, transportation, feeding and a conducive environment to help these young athletes develop their talents and realise their potential,” he said.
Nimrod described the ongoing 2026 National Division I and II Volleyball League in Abuja as a key component of the federation’s strategy to build a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.
He also announced that a Beach Volleyball League would commence next week in Kaduna, aimed at expanding participation and creating additional competitive opportunities for athletes across the country.
On international exposure, the federation boss revealed plans to continue providing young players with opportunities to compete globally, including participation in the upcoming Under-18 Championships in Egypt.
“We have consistently provided international exposure for these athletes through Under-17 and Under-18 competitions, and this year we will be taking the Under-18 girls’ team to Egypt.
“There is no going back. With or without support, we will continue to push forward and trust that doors of opportunity will open,” he stated.
Nimrod also disclosed that the federation is constructing a beach volleyball court ahead of Nigeria’s hosting of the African School Games, describing the project as part of efforts to strengthen the sport’s infrastructure.
In addition, he reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to supporting grassroots volleyball development through the distribution of equipment to states and clubs nationwide.
According to him, volleyballs and other sporting equipment were distributed to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory during the Ogun State Sports Festival, while additional distributions are planned for Lagos and Enugu later in the year.
Expressing optimism about the future of the sport, Nimrod said sustained investment in grassroots programmes would continue to produce athletes capable of excelling at continental and global competitions.
He maintained that the federation remains committed to creating opportunities for young talents and building a strong foundation for the continued growth of volleyball in Nigeria.
