As the Africa Continental Beach Volleyball Tournament approaches, Nigeria's national team is brimming with confidence and optimism, with head coach Kayode Ajilore declaring the country "a team to beat" at the upcoming competition in Morocco, set to begin June 23.
Speaking to journalists at the team's training camp in Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, on Thursday, Coach Ajilore praised the players' dedication and conditioning, assuring Nigerians of a strong podium finish.
"So far so good. The training is going well. The players are cooperating, and we’ve had no injuries. In beach volleyball, Nigeria is a threat to any other country. We’ve met some of these teams before, and I believe this time, Nigeria is the team to beat," he said.
Ajilore expressed faith in the team’s preparation and added, “With the help of God, we are looking forward to winning the tournament.”
The team, which has been in camp for nearly three weeks, owes its intensive preparation to the support of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) President, Engineer Musa Nimrod, according to team chaperone Florence Yori.
“The players are in good health. The training has been consistent—morning and evening—and the weather has been favourable,” Yori said. “The president is personally supporting the players, covering their feeding, medicals, and accommodation.”
She added that while facilities are not perfect, adequate provisions have been made to ensure the players' comfort and focus.
Yori voiced strong belief in the squad’s prospects. “I have confidence in both the male and female teams. If they play according to their training, they will make the country proud.”
Players also echoed the sentiments of optimism and determination.
“We’ve been in camp for over two weeks now,” said Augustine Uche of the male team; “Training has been intense. We are aware of strong opponents like Morocco, Gambia, Kenya, and Rwanda, but we fear none. We believe we’ll make the country proud.”
Team captain Esther Mbah Onyinye confirmed that morale is high. “With the drills and preparation we’ve received, we’re ready,” she said.
Another male player, Emenike Collins Ezike, who also plays for Nigeria Customs, emphasized the team's ambition to not only win but qualify for the World Championship.
“Our expectation is nothing short of bringing back the trophy to Nigeria,” he said. “The coaches have prepared us well, and we are good to go.”
The team is scheduled to depart Nigeria for Morocco on Sunday, June 22.
