Beach Volleyball: Nigeria Shines with Triple Victory at Africa Zone 3 Championship

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Team Nigeria made a dream start to their campaign at the 2025 CAVB Zone 3 Africa Beach Volleyball Championship in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, securing three straight wins on the opening day of action, Wednesday, August 27.

In the men’s category, the duo of Ibrahim Peter and Uchenna Austin set the tone with a dominant 2-0 (21-14, 21-16) victory over Benin Republic at the Canal de Koumassi Remblais Hotel. Their superior net play and defensive solidity ensured Nigeria began the tournament on a high note.

The women’s teams carried the momentum with equally impressive performances. Team A, made up of Esther Mbah and Pamela Bawa, swept aside hosts Ivory Coast III in straight sets, cruising to a 2-0 (21-9, 21-8) win. Team B followed with another convincing display, defeating Ivory Coast I 2-0 (21-18, 21-12), underlining Nigeria’s dominance across both categories.

Head coach Kayode Ajilore hailed the bright start, attributing the success to hard work and the players’ determination to establish Nigeria’s superiority in the region. He singled out the women’s team, noting that most of the squad are graduates of the Africa U18 Championship hosted in Nigeria.

“We are here to stamp our authority in the region and make a statement,” Ajilore said. “Three out of the four players in the women’s team were part of the Africa U18 Championship last year. Their growth and composure on the court have been encouraging.”

Ajilore, who also coaches the Nigeria Immigration Service volleyball team, assured fans that the teams remain focused on bringing glory to the country.

“We won’t disappoint,” he added. “These players understand the task ahead and are fully committed to delivering for Nigeria.”

The championship continues through the week, with Nigeria set to face stiffer challenges in the coming rounds as they look to consolidate their strong start and push for regional supremacy.