The battle for honours at the second National School Volleyball Championship intensified on Wednesday, as teams from nine states clashed in keenly contested matches.

The tournament is taking place at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

The competition, for secondary schools, is organised by the Nigeria School Sport Federation with the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, supported by the Lagos State Sports Commission.

The four-day event aims to nurture talent and select players for the International School Sport Federation World School Volleyball Championship in China, July 1–10.

Teams from Lagos, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Bayelsa, Adamawa and Bauchi states are competing in boys’ and girls’ categories.

A total of 28 teams are participating, comprising 18 boys’ squads and 10 girls’ squads.

Hundreds of students have converged on the venue, bringing energy and passion to the second edition of the championship.

The NSSF President, Olabisi Joseph, praised participating schools’ enthusiasm and reaffirmed commitment to developing volleyball talent through schools.

She said, “We are excited with the huge support from NVBF, ensuring international standards and the presence of top officials to handle proceedings.

“This collaboration will produce quality athletes and worthy ambassadors for our nation.”

Ms Joseph commended NVBF President, Musa Nimrod, and the Lagos State Sports Commission for their support.

Lagos State Volleyball Association Chairman, Kayode Ladele, said the collaboration had elevated the competition and strengthened Lagos’ hosting capacity.

The NVBF Technical Adviser, Martin Melandi, said technical support would ensure the best players represent Nigeria globally.

The maiden edition in Abuja, host teams won both titles, with standout players later representing Nigeria at the 2025 ISF championship.

The championship continues on Thursday, with finals and the closing ceremony scheduled for Friday. 

(NAN)