By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Musa Nimrod, has commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its sustained collaboration towards the growth and development of volleyball in Nigeria through its support for the Volleyball Premier League.
Nimrod said the NCS joined the Premier League initiative two years ago to support the federation, noting that the collaboration has continued successfully into its third year.
According to him, the backing from the NCS has strengthened the organisation, stability and competitiveness of the league, while also motivating players, coaches, officials and participating clubs.
He added that the league has become an important platform for discovering and nurturing young talents capable of representing Nigeria at continental and international competitions.
“The support of the NCS has brought stability and renewed confidence to the league. Their commitment has encouraged stakeholders and given athletes a stronger platform to excel,” Nimrod said.
He further called on corporate organisations and private investors to support volleyball development in Nigeria in order to create more opportunities for young athletes nationwide.
Nimrod noted that the federation has established a strong structure for volleyball administration in Nigeria, with volleyball academies operating across many states of the federation.
He also highlighted the federation’s grassroots development initiatives, including its collaboration with the National School Sports Federation on school volleyball programmes in Abuja and Lagos.
According to him, the federation organised a grassroots volleyball development programme for young girls three years ago, with more than 100 players invited to camp.
Nimrod cited the success of Vincent Mathias, who recently won a league title with his club in France after emerging from the grassroots development programme.
He added that Nigeria now has more than 40 volleyball players competing professionally outside the country, describing the development as a positive sign for the future of the sport.
