Joel Ajayi
The President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engr. Musa Nimrod, has reaffirmed his commitment to developing coaches capable of achieving world-class standards in beach volleyball. Speaking at the closing of the Olympic Solidarity Beach Volleyball Coaching Course for Nigerian coaches on Saturday in Abuja, he emphasized that by the end of his tenure, at least one of these coaches would reach a global benchmark of excellence.
The five-day intensive course, held from November 4 to 9, 2025, was jointly organized by the NVBF, the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), and the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB). It featured 25 participants drawn from across the country, including coaches, referees, and technical officials, all eager to enhance their skills and knowledge in beach volleyball.
The programme forms part of a global Olympic initiative aimed at equipping national federations with modern coaching methodologies in preparation for upcoming international competitions, notably the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Describing the program as a rare and valuable opportunity, Engr. Nimrod praised the participants’ dedication and performance.
“This is a unique environment where coaches can truly advance their skills,” he said. “Opportunities like this are not easy to come by anywhere else in the world.”
“This is just the beginning. We’ve planted a seed of excellence that must continue to grow. These coaches are our ambassadors, and through their work, Nigeria’s Beach Volleyball will continue to rise.”
He stressed that coaching goes beyond earning certificates, emphasizing that productivity, experience, and results are what define a successful coach.
“You cannot simply sit back and call yourself a coach. Your output, contributions, and mentorship of the next generation are what truly matter,” he added.
All participants successfully passed the examinations, highlighting their commitment and competence. Engr. Nimrod noted, however, that certificates alone are not enough — practical, hands-on experience remains essential.
Looking ahead, the NVBF will implement a mentorship and mental development program to pair young coaches with experienced mentors, ensuring knowledge transfer and preparing the next generation for top-level competition.
Of the 25 participants, 19 coaches earned the prestigious FIVB certification, while all 25 received recognition from the NVBF for completing the programme.
Representing the NOC President, Rukayat Dolapo Olaniyan, Administrative and Project Personnel at the NOC, expressed delight at the programme’s success and commended NVBF for aligning with Olympic Solidarity’s development objectives.
FIVB International Expert and Olympic silver medalist, Javier Bosma, also praised the participants’ progress, urging them to apply their new knowledge immediately within their communities.
For many participants, the course offered not only certification but a new perspective on coaching and leadership. Laju Isabella, one of the participants, expressed gratitude for the rare opportunity to advance her skills and contribute to the growth of Nigerian beach volleyball.
