Ojih Unveils Plans For Handball, Pledges Development, Unity

The newly elected President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Mr Jibril Saidu Ojih (FNIQS), has pledged to unite all stakeholders and drive the development of handball across the country, promising to build on the massive achievements of his predecessor, Mr Samuel Ocheho.

Ojih expressed deep gratitude to the delegates and the handball community for the trust reposed in him, describing his election as “a testament to the strength of our shared vision for Nigerian handball and our collective commitment to excellence.”

He assured that his administration would focus on grassroots revival, player welfare, infrastructure development, and international competitiveness while fostering a culture of love, peace, and inclusivity within the sport.

Ojih said, “We will work tirelessly to ensure Nigerian handball thrives and our athletes excel globally. More than anything, we will cultivate a culture of love, peace, and unity. We will promote inclusivity, equity, and transparency in our decision-making processes.”

The new HFN President also extended a hand of reconciliation to his opponents, urging them to join hands with him to advance the game. “Let us put our differences aside and work together for the progress of Nigerian handball.”

Ojih commended his predecessor, Mr Samuel Ocheho, for his leadership and service to the sport, describing his tenure as one that laid a solid foundation for future growth.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing board members, noting that their efforts had been invaluable while also declaring that he and his board will build on the achievements of the past and will chart a new course for the future.

Ojih said, “I want to specially appreciate my predecessor, my dear brother and colleague, Mr Samuel Ocheho, for his selfless service to the game of handball. His dedication and commitment have laid a solid foundation for us to build upon.

“I also want to thank all the Board members for the wonderful journey so far. Your contributions have been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing to work with you.”

Reaffirming his commitment to “consolidation and continuity”, Ojih outlined key focus areas of his agenda, including love and unity, grassroots revival, player welfare, international collaboration, transparency and innovation, youth development, partnerships and sponsorships, and the promotion of women’s handball and leadership.

Ojih, who is the Secretary General of the Commonwealth Handball Association and is the North-Central Zonal Representative on the HFN board, was elected President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria over the weekend, following a 9-5 victory over Mr John Oris, who represents the South-South Zone in HFN board in the presidential election of the Sports Federation conducted by the National Sports Commission at the Package B Indoor Sports Hall of the Moshood Kashimawo Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.