The West African Beach Soccer Union (WABSU) has commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for the appointment of an interim board to be organising beach soccer and Futsal league in Nigeria.
The Union made this known in a statement by the Executive Chairman in charge of Zone B, Ivory Coast, Mbabia Yves and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday in Birnin Kebbi.
NAN reports that the NFF Executive Committee, during its meeting in Asaba on Saturday, had approved the composition of the interim Board, which is chaired by Mahmud Hadejia.
Dele Gbajumo, Nkopuye Ukpe, Abdul-Nasir Senchi, Prof. Victor Madubuiko, Alh. Mohammed Alau, and Super Falcons legend Onome Ebi are members.
Also, Saraki Oladimeji was named Chief Executive Officer, while the Chief Operating Officer will be appointed by the NFF General Secretary
While reacting to the development, WABSU Zone B Executive Chairman, Nbabia Yves, described the development as a “game-changer” for the sport in the sub-region.
According to him, the development is a landmark achievement that aligns perfectly with the Union’s vision of elevating beach soccer to its rightful place in West Africa’s sporting landscape.
“We are absolutely delighted with this development. For years, we have advocated for a dedicated structure that would give beach soccer the attention, investment, and organisational framework it deserves. The NFF has listened, and we are grateful.”
The Union noted that the establishment of the interim Board comes at a most opportune time, especially with the WABSU Club Competition scheduled for October 2026 in Benin Republic.
“Nigerian clubs, whose participation in the regional tournament had been in limbo due to ongoing domestic leagues, can now look forward to a clearer pathway to participation.
“This development sends a strong signal that Nigeria is ready to take its rightful place as a powerhouse in West African beach soccer.
“With a dedicated board in place, we are confident that Nigerian clubs will not only participate but excel in our forthcoming club competition,” Yves was quoted as saying in the in the congratulatory message.
Yves noted that WABSU expressed full confidence in the capabilities of the newly constituted Board, particularly the inclusion of Onome Ebi, a decorated Super Falcons star, which the Union believes will further strengthen the bridge between beach soccer and women’s football development.
“The Board comprises individuals of proven integrity and administrative acumen.
“We are particularly excited about the presence of Miss Onome Ebi, whose wealth of experience in women’s football will undoubtedly advance our shared goal of promoting women’s participation in beach soccer.”
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Union to be working closely with the new Board to ensure seamless coordination between the Union’s activities and Nigeria’s domestic beach soccer structures.
“The Union also pledged to support the Board in its efforts to organise credible leagues, develop grassroots talent, and position Nigeria as a formidable force in both beach soccer and futsal on the continental and global stages.
“We view this as the beginning of a beautiful partnership. The WABSU Executive Committee stands ready to collaborate with the interim Board in every way possible to ensure the growth and sustainability of beach soccer in Nigeria and the wider West African sub-region,” Yves added.
He congratulated the entire NFF Executive Committee, led by President Ibrahim Gusau, for their visionary leadership and commitment to the holistic development of all football variants in Nigeria.
“WABSU looks forward to a fruitful relationship with the interim Board and reiterated its commitment to the continued growth and development of beach soccer across West Africa.”