The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) says it has opened camp at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, for 58 players, ahead of the upcoming continental competition in Kigali, Rwanda.
Caretaker Committee Chairman of the NVBF, Musa Nimrod, disclosed this to newsmen on Saturday, on the sidelines of the closing ceremony of the Kaduna State U-15 Beach/Indoor Volleyball Championships.
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Nimrod said the contingent, comprising 34 male and 24 female players of the national senior volleyball teams, would have the boys leave for Kigali in September, to be followed shortly after by the girls.
He cited funding as a challenge, but that the federation was trying to see how the teams would participate in the championships.
” In terms of funding for the engagements, we are doing our best, however, we are open to partnership with corporate organisations and public spirited Individuals.
“As leaders, we are bound to take responsibilities. I am aware, former and present players are raising funds for the players going to Kigali. We will use it in buying kits,” he said.
He appreciated the federal government for opening the doors of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, for the camping of the 58 players.
“So far, the government has assisted us with Ahmadu Bello Stadium for camping and we are very grateful,” he said.
On Nigeria’s U-19 team that departed for Iran last week, he confirmed that the team had arrived safely and were in high spirits.
“We thank God the team arrived Iran in safety, we are believing God they will be fine, they will be quarantined for days before undergoing COVID-19 tests. I am aware other countries, even Iran, want them for a trial match.
“The Nigerian team is very strong and they are aware of that. They know Nigeria is not a cheap team they can overrun. We have told our players not to be scared of their white skin,” he added.
Nimrod described the female U-18 team that would also be departing for Mexico soon, as a promising squad.
“We have built a new U-18 female team and they are also preparing to go to Mexico.
“Let’s pray against any problems that may arise, especially this period of COVID-19, because if any player gets infected, all of them will be disqualified”, he said. (NAN)
