By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The West African Beach Soccer Union (WABSU) has commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for establishing an interim Beach Soccer and Futsal Board, describing the move as a major boost for the growth of the sport in Nigeria and across West Africa.
In a statement issued on Sunday, WABSU said the decision marks a new era for beach soccer, praising the NFF for creating a dedicated structure to drive the development of the game, which has long received less attention than conventional football.
The interim Board, approved by the NFF Executive Committee during its meeting in Asaba on Saturday, is chaired by Mahmud Hadejia. Other members are Dele Gbajumo, Hon. Nkopuye Ukpe, Abdul-Nasir Adamu Senchi, Prof. Victor Madubuiko, Alhaji Mohammed Bukar Alau, and former Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi. Saraki Rasheed Oladimeji will serve as Chief Executive Officer, while the Chief Operating Officer will be appointed by the NFF General Secretary.
WABSU described the appointments as a landmark step that aligns with its vision of strengthening beach soccer administration and creating sustainable structures across the West African region.
“We are absolutely delighted with this development. For years, we have advocated for a dedicated structure that would give beach soccer the attention, investment and organisational framework it deserves. The NFF has listened, and we are grateful,” the Union said.
The regional body also noted that the Board’s inauguration comes at a crucial time ahead of the WABSU Club Competition scheduled for October 2026 in Benin Republic. It expressed optimism that Nigerian clubs will now have a clear pathway to qualify and compete in the regional tournament.
According to WABSU, the new Board sends a strong message that Nigeria is ready to reclaim a leading role in beach soccer within the sub-region, adding that it expects Nigerian clubs to make a significant impact at the forthcoming championship.
The Union further welcomed the inclusion of Onome Ebi, saying her vast experience in women’s football would help advance female participation in beach soccer while strengthening the sport’s overall development.
Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, WABSU pledged to work closely with the interim Board in organising credible domestic leagues, nurturing grassroots talent, and positioning Nigeria as a dominant force in beach soccer and futsal at both continental and global levels.
The Union also congratulated the NFF Executive Committee, led by President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, for what it described as visionary leadership and renewed commitment to the development of all football disciplines in Nigeria.
