Samuel Ocheho, the President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), has vowed to capitalise on the country’s achievements at the recently concluded African Games in Ghana.
Nigeria’s Golden Arrows secured bronze by defeating Benin Republic 38-20 in the handball third-place match of the 13th edition of the African Games.
Coach Rafiu Salami’s team’s podium finish marked Nigeria’s first since the Abuja 2003 Games, and an enthusiastic Ocheho has assured of continued efforts in their journey.
“I am glad that the boys finally came out with a bronze because when we were going for the championship, the goal was to win a medal, any colour of medal, and I am happy that we were able to win something,” stated the HFN president.
He continued, “The league we started is beginning to yield fruit, and the whole idea of bringing in youthful players is beginning to show results because the boys are getting mature every day. At the event, the average age of our team was the youngest and a lot of people are giving us commendation as they can see a great future ahead of the young boys.
“The plan now is to keep preparing and dominating in Africa. Our goal is to make sure that we are at the top in Africa and we will not relent until we achieve our goal.”
With the bronze medal secured in Ghana, Nigeria’s handball tally in the African Games now stands at four, including previous bronze medals in Cairo ’91, Harare ’95, and Abuja 2003.