Bayelsa and Bauchi States have emerged champions at the 2nd edition of the National School Volleyball Championships, which concluded in dramatic fashion at the National Institute for Sports, Surulere, Lagos.
The four-day tournament featured 28 teams—comprising 10 boys’ and 8 girls’ sides—from across Nigeria. Organized by the Nigerian School Sports Federation (NSSF) in collaboration with the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) and supported by the Lagos State Sports Commission, the competition showcased rising talent and strengthened grassroots sports development nationwide.
In the girls’ final, Bayelsa edged out hosts Lagos in a tightly contested encounter. Bayelsa dominated the opening set 25–14, before Lagos fought back to claim the second 25–19. The decider proved tense, but the Bayelsa girls held their nerve to seal the championship with a 15–12 win.
The boys’ final delivered similar drama as Lagos started strong, taking the first set 25–21. However, Bauchi responded emphatically, crushing the second set 25–12 before completing a stunning comeback with a 15–9 victory to claim the boys’ title.
Adamawa and Oyo States secured bronze medals in the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively, defeating Ekiti and Ogun in the third-place playoffs.
At the closing ceremony, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Habu Gumel, commended the NSSF leadership under Olabisi Joseph for revitalising school sports in the country. He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting youth competitions, describing them as essential for developing athletes capable of competing at Olympic, Commonwealth, African, and world levels.
Meanwhile, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, praised the Ijaw National Academy for its outstanding performance in securing the girls’ title. He described the victory as a testament to discipline, determination, and emerging talent.
“I want to deeply extend my congratulations to the Ijaw National Academy girls for this milestone. It is a thing of joy and mind-blowing. I am elated that our students were able to pull this off. The government of Bayelsa State is proud of this achievement,” he said.
Dr. Emelah also commended the school management, coaching staff, and Godwin Adagbo for their roles in the historic success.
Selected standout players from the tournament are expected to represent Nigeria at the ISF World School Volleyball Championship in China, scheduled for July 1–10, under the technical supervision of the NVBF.