My administration will collaborate with, and empower grassroots to develop Nigerian Handball to meet international standard – Mr. Jibril Ojih Saidu-
My administration will collaborate with, and empower grassroots to develop Nigerian Handball to meet international standard – Mr. Jibril Ojih Saidu, Presidential candidate, Nigerian Handball Federation
On July 26, 2025, a group of respected sports journalists, led by Eche Amos, held an open online interview session with Mr. Jibril Ojih Saidu — a veteran sports administrator, current Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Handball Association, and presidential candidate for the Nigerian Handball Federation (NHF), The North Central representative on the NHF board and President of the Mega Handball Veterans of Abuja, .
During the interview, Saidu shared his vision and plans if elected as NHF President, promising a new era of innovation, transparency, and grassroots development for handball in Nigeria.
Saidu, spoke passionately about his goals during the online session and responded intelligently and convincing to each question asked.
When asked about his motivation, Saidu said, “Change is constant. My dream as president is to remodel handball for a better tomorrow.” While he praised the contributions of previous leaders, he stressed the need for modernization in both handball techniques and administration.
“Much has been done by past leaders, but we must now embrace global innovations and improve how we manage the game,” he added. “Playing is just one part planning, coordination, and innovation are equally important.”
Saidu brings a strong background in both local and international handball administration. He is only the second Nigerian to serve as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Handball Association, after General Ishola Williams (RTD). A former player and Fellow of the Society of Nigerian Surveyors, Saidu combines technical knowledge with solid leadership experience.
On what makes him stand out from other candidates, Saidu said:
“Interest, quietness, sincerity, openness, and transparency, these are the values I bring.”
If elected, Saidu said his focus will include players welfare, better infrastructure, and access to proper handball equipment.
“In the first 100 days, we will provide more handballs, upgrade training facilities, and build more courts. Players at all levels must have what they need to grow,” he said.
He also promised to prioritize grassroots development by decentralizing leadership across the zones, a major topic that has captured many, especially the genuine lovers of Handball.
“Each zone will be empowered like a mini federation, with clear responsibilities. That way, they can grow their talent pool and support the national team,” Saidu explained.
On technical development, Saidu acknowledged the current lack of quality coaches and referees. He said his administration would seek support from the Confederation of African Handball (CAHF) and the International Handball Federation (IHF) to train more professionals.
“We will introduce a ‘Train the Trainer’ program so that knowledge can reach every corner of the country,” he said, adding that his international connections would help achieve this goal.
Saidu also spoke of plans to bring back the military and paramilitary teams, which were once key contributors to Nigerian handball.
Going through his response, one will conclude that Saidu is likely the right man for the job, and the best head for the cap, but only time shall tell, and according to the National Sports Commission’s election schedule, nomination forms will be available from August 1 and must be submitted by August 4. Zonal elections will be held on August 9, while the general election and official inauguration are set for August 15 at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, so untill then we await who will warm the seat and chair the development of Nigerian Handball Federation.
Media Jagabam ๐ฅ ๐ฅ ๐ฅ
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