By Victor Okoye
Abuja, April 3, 2025 – The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has charged participants at the ongoing 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Inter-Club Championship (AWVC) to showcase the true essence of sportsmanship.
The First lady gave the charge when she officially declared the Championship open at the Moshood Abiola, National Stadium, on Thursday in Abuja.
Mrs Tinubu who is the Grand Patron of the tournament, commended the athletes for showcasing their talents in sport.
“I thank the African Volleyball Confederation for choosing Nigeria as the host nation for this prestigious tournament.
“Your confidence in our ability to provide a conducive environment for this championship is indicative of Nigeria’s growing reputation as a destination for international sporting events.
“The athletes before us today perfectly embody what we advocate for women, boldly claiming their space and demonstrating that gender is never a limitation to excellence.
“Each of you represents your nation, as well as the unlimited potential of African womanhood.
“Seeing these talented young African women gathered here to showcase their exceptional skills and sporting excellence, fills my heart with profound joy and optimism for our continent’s future,”she said.
She described Nigeria as a nation where women are making remarkable strides across all sectors under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, we have witnessed unprecedented reforms aimed at enhancing women’s participation in governance, economics and societal development.
“As you compete in this tournament, I encourage you to see yourselves as ambassadors of sports, and of the limitless potential that lies within every African woman.
“The discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience you cultivate as athletes are invaluable life skills that will serve you well beyond the volleyball court,” she said.
The first lady further encouraged all participants, to approach both victory and defeat with grace and dignity, adding that at the end of the day, they are all winners for participating in the tournament.
“To the winner, recognise that your success inspires countless young girls watching from the stands and from homes across Africa.
“I warmly invite you to explore our beautiful capital city of Abuja and experience the rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality that Nigeria has to offer.
“At this juncture, I officially declare the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship Tournament open,” she said.
Shehu Dikko, the Chairman, National Sports Commission ( NSC) commended the first lady for accepting to be the grand patron of the tournament.
He acknowledged the Nigeria Customs Service with the support of the NSC for playing the pivotal role in ensuring seamless logistics of the championship.
“To the first lady, whose leadership as the grand patron of this event has been invaluable in bringing this championship to life.
“Your commitment to women in sports and women in general, has continued to inspire and pave the way for future generations of Africans.
“To the athletes, I encourage you to continue with passion , integrity and respect for one another.
“Let this tournament be a celebration of excellence and unbreakable bonds that sports create,” he said.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi in his remarks, described the tournament as a remarkable one that has featured many female athletes.
“Today we gather to celebrate the culmination of countless hours of sacrifice, determination and unwavering commitment.
“Each athlete here represents a journey of perseverance that extends beyond these courts.
“In this arena are women who have defiled expectations, overcome obstacles and risen above limitations, these athletes have turned impossibility into possibility,”he said.
He also appreciated Mrs Tinubu for her inspiration and for the acceptance of being the grand patron of the championship.
“In our first lady, Nigerian women are privileged to have a better tomorrow and rallying force for women development and gender inclusivity.
Also speaking, Bouchra Hajij, the President, Confederation of African Volleyball, said the championship provides a platform for the continent’s best clubs to compete.
“It is a privilege to be here today as we officially open the 29th edition of the women’s volleyball championship tournament.
“This tournament shows the symbol of excellence in Africa volleyball which brings together our continent finalists to compete at the highest level,” she said.
