Remi Tinubu Declares 2025 Women’s African Club Volleyball Championship Open in Abuja

…Nigeria Customs Team Triumphs Over Cameroon in Opening Match

Nigeria’s First Lady and wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, officially declared open the 2025 Women’s African Club Volleyball Championship on Thursday, 3rd April 2025, at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, Abuja.

This year’s tournament marks a significant milestone as Nigeria plays host for the first time to the continent’s prestigious women’s volleyball championship, drawing elite clubs from across Africa to compete on a grand stage.

Welcoming the participating teams, Senator Tinubu commended the organisers for their dedication to the advancement of women’s sports on the continent.

She hailed the championship as a testament to the strength, determination, and talent of African women in athletics.

“This tournament reflects the strength, determination, and talent of African women in sports. I encourage all teams to compete with discipline, respect, and true sportsmanship. Let this championship be a platform for building friendships and inspiring future generations,” she said.

The First Lady further lauded the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its continued investment in sports development, describing such initiatives as vital to national unity and youth empowerment.

Earlier, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, in his welcome address, emphasised the tournament’s significance in fostering international cooperation and highlighting Nigeria’s sporting excellence.

“Success is measured by the standards we uphold, the opportunities we create, and the inspiration we provide. To all the athletes competing today, this is more than a game. It is a stage where you inspire others and leave a legacy for the next generation. Play with passion, integrity, and the spirit of fair competition,” CGC Adeniyi stated.

He reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to youth development through sports, adding that such tournaments offer a unique avenue to promote teamwork, discipline, and perseverance among the youth.

“As you take to the court, remember that your performance today will inspire many young girls across the continent who aspire to be where you are. Let this tournament serve as a reminder that through hard work and determination, excellence is achievable,” he added.

Adeniyi also expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her support through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which he noted has significantly impacted youth and women’s development, including in the sporting sector.

Adding his voice to the occasion, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko, hailed the Nigeria Customs Service for securing the hosting rights, noting that it represents a milestone achievement for Nigerian and African volleyball.

“This championship serves as a platform for African teams to showcase their skills at the highest level. Hosting this event in Nigeria reflects the country’s rising status in global sports and the commitment of our institutions to developing talent across various disciplines,” he said.

Dikko also acknowledged the First Lady’s role as Grand Patron of the championship, describing her presence as a signal of renewed national commitment to women’s sports.

“Your leadership and advocacy have continued to inspire young athletes, and we are confident that this championship will leave a lasting impact on the future of African volleyball,” he added, calling on corporate organisations and stakeholders to invest more in the growth of women’s sports across the continent.

President of the African Volleyball Confederation, Bouchra Hajij, echoed similar sentiments, urging all participating teams to embrace the values of fair play and discipline.

“This tournament is more than just a competition; it is an avenue to promote unity, friendship, and the shared passion we have for volleyball. I urge all participating teams to respect the rules, uphold the spirit of the game, and demonstrate the highest level of sportsmanship throughout the competition,” Hajij said.

She praised Nigeria’s role as host, commending the country for providing a world-class platform for female athletes and reaffirming the Confederation’s pride in witnessing Nigeria’s growing influence in the realm of sports development.

“Every spike, every serve, and every rally played in this tournament will inspire the next generation. Let us continue to push the boundaries and ensure that African women’s volleyball reaches even greater heights,” she concluded.

The opening ceremony set the stage for an electrifying inaugural match between the Nigeria Customs Service Volleyball Team and their Cameroonian counterparts.

The Customs team put on a commanding performance, defeating the Cameroonians in straight sets. The first round saw Nigeria Customs dominate with a 25–18 victory.

They continued their strong showing in the second round with a 25–17 win. In a more contested final set, the Nigerians edged past Cameroon with a 25–22 finish to seal a resounding triumph.

The 2025 Women’s African Club Volleyball Championship is scheduled to run until 14th April 2025, when the tournament will culminate with the crowning of a new continental champion.