Nigeria's Youth Handball Teams Arrive in Lome for IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 Tournament
Nigeria's boys' U-18 and U-20 handball teams have arrived in Lome, Togo, over the weekend, filled with confidence as they prepare for the 2026 IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 Tournament. The competition is scheduled to take place from April 7 to 11, marking a crucial event for youth sports development in the region.
Intensive Preparations and Tournament Significance
Before departing for Togo, both squads engaged in weeks of rigorous training, focusing on tactics, fitness, and team cohesion. This intensive preparatory period was designed to ensure peak performance at the regional championship. Organized by the International Handball Federation (IHF), the tournament serves as a key developmental platform. The winners in both the Youth (U-18) and Junior (U-20) categories will earn the right to represent Zone 3 at the continental phase, highlighting the high stakes involved.
Group Stage Draws and Opponents
Following the official draw, Nigeria's U-18 team has been placed in Group B, where they will compete against Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Group A comprises Ghana, Togo, and Côte d'Ivoire. In the Junior (U-20) category, Nigeria is also drawn in Group B, facing Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso. Group A features Ghana, Benin, Togo, and Niger. These group placements set the stage for competitive matches as teams vie for advancement.
Team Rosters and Leadership
The U-18 team includes players such as Friday Shuaibu, Shaibu Mohammed, Aliyu Rufai, Sani Muntari, Usman Umar, Godstime Michael, Huzaifa Abdulkadir, Chidiebere Davine, Hamza Yahaya, Mohammed Yahaya, Umar Mohammed, Abubakar Abdullahi, Akibu Mohammed, and Obeze Akunebu. They are guided by officials Abdulhakim Yakubu and Ayo Joshua.
In the U-20 squad, players include Attahiru Ab Sahabi (Sokoto Rima), Obabori Samuel Aduralere (Adjidja HB Cotonou), Ganiu Aduragbemi Emmanuel (Tojemarine HB), Kareem Faruk Olamilekan (Tojemarine HB), Akanni Basit (Lagos Seasiders), Mohammed Musa (Safety Shooters), Jackson Nelson (Adamawa Warriors), Chuks Moses Egwuelu (Safety Shooters), Okolie Olisaemeka Andrew (Tojemarine), Yusuf Suleiman (Sokoto Rima), Abaaka Simon (Safety Shooters), Suleiman Sani (Flowers HB Cotonou), Mustapha Mohammed (Sokoto Rima), and Isyaka Mustapha (Flowers HB Cotonou). The team is led by Head Coach David Emmanuel and Assistant Coach Cole Olatunde.
Confidence and Expectations
With their arrival in Lome, Nigeria's youth handball teams are poised to showcase their skills and determination. The tournament not only offers a chance for victory but also serves as an opportunity for young athletes to gain valuable experience on an international stage. As the competition unfolds, all eyes will be on these teams as they strive to secure a spot in the continental phase and bring pride to Nigeria.
