NBSL Round Two Begins in Nnewi, Prof. Madubuko Honoured

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The 2025 Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL) resumed with thrilling action in Nnewi, where fans were treated to exciting contests and a special recognition for one of the sport’s biggest contributors, Professor Victor Madubuko, Chairman of the Anambra State Beach Soccer Association.

On the sand, Kebbi United BSC endured a disappointing start as they fell 3–0 to Jigawa Golden Stars BSC, while Ibom BSC continued their fine form with a dominant 3–0 victory over Nmanko Patigi BSC. Kada BSC also impressed, dispatching Niger BSC with the same scoreline. The highlight clash of the day saw hosts Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors lose in dramatic fashion, falling 6–5 on penalties to Kebbi Fishers BSC after a tightly contested game ended in a draw in regulation time.

Beyond the results, the spotlight shone brightly on Professor Victor Madubuko, who was presented with the Outstanding Contribution Award by the Nigeria Beach Soccer League. The honour, bestowed at the close of Matchday One, recognized his visionary leadership and relentless efforts in elevating beach soccer in Anambra State.

Under his stewardship, Anambra has emerged as a key hub for the sport, hosting national competitions and attracting top teams from across the country. NBSL CEO, Mahmud Hadejia, who presented the award, hailed Madubuko’s “passion, dedication, and grassroots drive,” describing him as the engine behind the sport’s remarkable growth in the state.

Madubuko has spearheaded an ambitious project to establish a permanent beach soccer facility in Anambra, complete with an international-standard artificial sand pitch. The venue is expected to host state and national competitions, serve as a training hub for young talents, and provide a feeder system to the national league. His vision extends beyond sports, focusing on youth engagement, empowerment, and employment through the game.

Accepting the award, Madubuko dedicated it to the players, coaches, and supporters who have embraced the sport. “This recognition is not just for me, but for every believer in beach soccer in Anambra. Our mission is to make the game a frontline sporting activity in this state, and this honour gives us even greater motivation to keep building.”

With the award presentation and the opening games setting the tone, the Nnewi phase of the 2025 NBSL promises to deliver more exciting action on the sand, alongside continued strides in the sport’s development in Nigeria.