By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) has announced the appointment of coaches for its senior, age-grade and beach volleyball national teams as part of efforts to strengthen technical development and improve the country’s competitiveness on the continental and global stage.
The appointments followed a comprehensive selection, screening and approval process designed to position Nigeria’s national teams for success in upcoming regional, continental and international competitions.
For the Senior Men’s National Team, Coach Taiwo Oladipupo was named Head Coach, with Coach Twevini Yohanna serving as Assistant Coach I and Setters Coach, while Coach Jonah Adamu will take up the role of Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator.
In the Senior Women’s National Team, Coach Elam Elishama was appointed Head Coach. He will be assisted by Coach Segun Abinde as Assistant Coach I and Offensive Coordinator, while Coach Sunday Yunana Akapson will serve as Setters Trainer.
The Under-19 Boys team will be led by Coach Adamu Nite as Head Coach, supported by Coach Ayo Aboderin as Assistant Coach I and Offensive Coordinator, and Coach Philip Stephen as Setters Trainer.
For the Under-19 Girls team, Coach Vincent Unogwu was named Head Coach, with Coach Bukola Faremi serving as Assistant Coach I and Blocking and Defense Coordinator, while Coach Chinyere Onuoha will serve as Assistant Coach II and Offensive Coordinator.
Coach Sunday Yunana Akapson was appointed Head Coach of the Under-17 Girls team, alongside Coach Jessica Egwuna as Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator, and Coach Kinsley Alika as Setters Trainer.
The Under-17 Boys team will be handled by Coach Suleiman Ajeigbe as Head Coach, assisted by Coach Ibrahim Adamu as Assistant Coach I and Offensive Coordinator, while Coach Osas Omoruyi will serve as Assistant Coach.
In beach volleyball, Coach Kayode and Coach Felicia Amos were appointed to oversee the Women’s Beach Volleyball Team, while Coach John Iwerima and Coach Jonathan Thaj will take charge of the Men’s Beach Volleyball Team.
The Federation congratulated all the newly appointed coaches and expressed confidence in their ability to drive the growth of volleyball in Nigeria through professionalism, technical expertise and effective player development.
According to the NVBF, the appointments reflect its commitment to building a robust talent development pathway and fostering a culture of excellence that will enhance Nigeria’s performance in both indoor and beach volleyball competitions.
The Federation also reiterated its determination to provide the necessary technical leadership and support required for the national teams to achieve sustained success at major international championships.