By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s male and female teams will compete at the 2026 Under-18 Africa Hockey 5s Championship in Nairobi, Kenya, from August 6 to 8, with a place at the FIH Hockey5s World Cup at stake.
The Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF) has confirmed that Team Nigeria will be represented by a 26-member contingent comprising 20 players—10 boys and 10 girls—alongside coaches and technical officials for the continental competition.
The championship will bring together some of Africa’s brightest young talents, providing a platform for the players to gain international exposure and compete against the best teams on the continent.
Speaking ahead of the team’s departure, Nigeria Hockey Federation President, Engr. Simon Nkom, expressed confidence in the athletes’ preparation and ability to make the country proud.
“The U-18 Africa Hockey 5s Championship is a significant opportunity for our young athletes to test their skills against the best on the continent and gain valuable international exposure. We are optimistic that both our male and female teams will compete with determination, discipline and resilience,” he said.
Nkom added that the tournament reflects the steady growth of grassroots hockey development in Nigeria and the federation’s commitment to nurturing young talents.
Beyond the continental title, the championship also serves as a qualification event for the FIH Hockey5s World Cup scheduled for Cairo, Egypt, in December 2026. The champions and runners-up in both the boys’ and girls’ categories will secure Africa’s slots at the global tournament.
The federation noted that the team’s participation highlights its determination to strengthen Nigeria’s standing in African and international hockey, while appreciating the support of the National Sports Commission, parents, sponsors and hockey enthusiasts.
The NHF also called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to rally behind the young athletes as they seek continental success and a place on the world stage.
