Ardova Handball Premier League on Saturday came to a successful end, November, 25, 2023 with Niger United and Safety Babes emerging champions of the elite league.
In a keenly contested and entertaining last game played at the Gymnasium Hall of the National Institute For Sports ( NIS), , Surulere, Lagos,Niger United defeated hard fighting Tojimarine Academy, Lagos by 37-31 to win the title to the admiration of fans who trooped out at the venue to watch the best of Handball.
In the female category, defending champions, Safety Babes defeated their closest rivals Rima Babes 39-31 to be crowned champions of the women league.
Speaking on his team’s performance, one of the oldest members of Niger United and a national team player, Talle Dada expressed happiness that his team mates made the state happy; noting that hard work and determination gave them victory.
“I’m highly excited that we won this trophy as this is the first time any team is winning a major trophy for our state governor since he came on board.
“It’s equally important to state that we played a total of 20 games; lost 2 and drew one but the most important thing is that all the teams lost games in the league.
“Our next plan is to look at areas the team is deficient, improve on it and prepare adequately for continental challenge”, he stressed
Sponsor of the league who also doubles as the Chief Executive Chairman of Ardova, Abdulwasiu Sowami noted that he’s happy with his partnership with Handball Federation of Nigeria which has led to the growth and development of the league over the years and has equally created a platform to support the development of sportsmen and women even beyond the league.
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” Without doubt, handball is one of the fastest growing sports in Nigeria and it has equally grown to be one of the most competitive sports in the country and I’m happy to be associated with that development.
He commended the Federation for putting up a world class tournament and expressed hope that winners will represent the country well at the continental championship.
In his remarks, President of Handball Federation of Nigeria, Samuel Ocheho described Ardova as worthy partners and commended the dedication of the players, coaches and the unwavering support of fans which led to a successful and hitch free tournament.
Winners of both male and female categories got a giant trophy and a cash prize of N2 million while the first and second runners-up went home with trophies, N1.5 and N1 million respectively.
There were also prizes for Most Valuable Player, best keeper, best coach and best behaved team amongst others.
