Benin City is poised to host the National Division One Handball League 2024, with over twenty teams set to compete at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium from July 14th.
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This eagerly anticipated event marks the beginning of the second-tier handball league in Nigeria, proudly sponsored by the Edo State government and the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN).
The league serves as a crucial platform for teams aiming to secure promotion to the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025. In both the men’s and women’s categories, four teams will earn the opportunity to advance to the top tier of Nigerian handball.
Teams are scheduled to arrive in Benin City, Edo State, on Sunday, July 14th, 2024, to participate in a technical meeting where the league draws will take place. The competition will commence on Monday, July 15th, and run through to July 19th.
At the end of the tournament, the top two teams from each category will qualify for the Ardova Handball Premier League, with all teams departing Benin City on July 20th, 2024.
In the men’s category, notable teams include COAS Shooters, Bendel Dynamos, Police Machine, Bayelsa Boys, and Arise Handball Club. The women’s category will see teams such as Osun Babes, Mindscope Academy, Coal City Babes, Benue Queens, and Police Machine vying for promotion.
Mr. Yussuf Ali, Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission and a former athletic legend, has assured the HFN and participating teams of a seamless championship. He emphasized the Edo State Government’s dedication to fostering the growth of sports, which has consistently attracted high-profile competitions to the state.
“Let me state clearly that we are happy to be a worthy partner with the Handball Federation of Nigeria in hosting the National Division One League. It has been a mutually beneficial and rewarding partnership which has seen Edo State attract the best of handball,” said Ali. “I want to therefore assure the HFN that the Edo State Sports Commission has put plans in place to ensure that the National Division One League is a memorable one which will see the best of handballing experience in Benin City.”
The HFN’s Secretary General, Mr. Almu Lambu, also expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for their continued support and partnership in promoting handball in Nigeria.
“On behalf of the HFN, we want to thank the Edo State Government for choosing to partner with us in ensuring the continued growth of handball in Nigeria,” said Lambu.
The National Division One Handball League 2024 promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the best of Nigeria’s emerging handball talent and setting the stage for future stars of the sport. With meticulous planning and robust support from the Edo State Government, this year’s league is set to deliver an exceptional sporting experience in Benin City.
