The Handball Federation of Nigeria has announced plans for two major competitions in 2026, with the Premier League heading to Abuja in August and a 4×4 Handball Championship scheduled for Makurdi, Benue State, from June 16 to 19, PUNCH Sports Extra reports. The federation also disclosed that the North-Central Handball Championship will hold in Lafia, Nasarawa State, from July 12 to 18, rounding off a busy domestic calendar that organisers hope will significantly raise the profile of the sport across the country. HFN president Jibril Saidu Ojih said the competitions form part of a deliberate strategy to make handball more attractive to players, fans, sponsors and partners. “The Handball Premier League and the 4×4 Handball Championship are part of our broader vision to reposition handball in Nigeria and make the sport more attractive to players, fans, sponsors, and partners,” he said. Ojih described the 4×4 Championship in particular as a fresh and innovative offering designed to bring a different dimension to the sport’s presentation in Nigeria. Related News Four Nigerian women in WBC top 10 rankings Nigeria new cricket coach Mangongo targets 2028 W’Cup Kanu backs Arsenal for UCL victory “We are excited about what these events will bring to Nigerian handball. Abuja will witness a top-class Premier League, while Makurdi will host a unique 4×4 championship that promises excitement and entertainment for everyone involved,” he stated. The HFN president also called on stakeholders and sports enthusiasts to get behind the federation as preparations gather pace. “With the support of stakeholders and the passion of our athletes, we are confident that 2026 will be a remarkable year for handball in Nigeria,” he added. The competitions are expected to draw clubs, players, officials and handball enthusiasts from across the country as the federation pushes to expand the reach of the game beyond its traditional strongholds.
