Nigeria’s men’s and women’s beach volleyball teams have successfully qualified for the 13th African Games scheduled to take place in Ghana from March 8th to 23rd, 2024.
The qualification comes after impressive performances by both teams in the Zone III qualifiers.
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In the women’s category, the duo of Esther Mbah and Pamela Bawa secured a flawless record, winning all their matches. They defeated Burkina Faso 2-0 (21-12, 21-10), Benin Republic 2-0 (21-6, 21-13), and Cote d’Ivoire 2-0 (21-6, 21-6), securing the top position in the qualifiers.
The men’s team, represented by Hilary Simon and Obayemi Ogunshina, recorded three victories against Burkina Faso 2-0 (21-15, 21-11), Togo 2-1 (15-21, 21-13, 21-13), and Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 (16-21, 21-17, 15-13). They faced a narrow defeat against the Benin Republic, losing 2-1 (21-14, 21-23, 15-21).
Coach Kayode Ajilore praised the resilient spirit of the players, emphasizing their determination to secure a spot in the African Games.
He commended the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, led by Engineer Musa Nimrod, for supporting the dreams of the young players.
Ajilore expressed joy, stating, “I am full of joy to see that the women’s beach volleyball team has qualified for the African Games.
The young girls have been able to cement their place in Zone III, and I am sure with adequate preparations, they will go far.”
The coach revealed plans to address identified weaknesses during closed camp sessions immediately upon returning to Nigeria.
He expressed confidence in the players’ abilities and aimed for a medal-winning performance at the African Games.
