Nigeria crowned Champions of 2026 African U18 Beach Volleyball Development Cup

Nigeria crowned Champions of 2026 African U18 Beach Volleyball Development Cup

Nigeria’s women’s team defeated hosts Senegal A 2-0 (21-8, 21-10) to emerge champions of the 2026 African U18 Beach Volleyball Development Cup in Senegal on Thursday, August 13.

The Nigerian duo of Joy Lawrence and Ifechukwu Odoh started the first set strongly, quickly establishing control and leaving Senegal A struggling to find a response.

Lawrence and Ifechukwu maintained their composure to take the opening set 21-8.

The hosts returned with renewed determination in the second set, hoping to rally their supporters, but Nigeria remained in command.

The Nigerian pair continued their impressive display and sealed the championship with a 21-10 victory.

Speaking after the triumph, Nigeria’s coach, John Iwerima, praised the players for their resilience and fighting spirit.

The ex-international also commended the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) for its support in ensuring the team participated in the competition.

He said: “The players showed great resilience and determination throughout the competition. This victory is a clear indication that Nigeria has one of the best developmental programmes in Africa.”

Iwerima said the exposure gained from the tournament would be valuable to the young players as they continue their development.

Also speaking, NVBF President, Engineer Musa Nimrod, said the triumph was a positive sign for the future of beach volleyball in Nigeria.

Nimrod congratulated the players and coaches for their outstanding performance, adding that sustained investment in youth competitions remains central to Nigeria’s plans for developing the sport.

He said: “The future of beach volleyball in Nigeria is very bright. We will continue to focus on underage competitions because that is how we can build stronger senior women’s teams for the future.”