Benue Buffaloes have secured qualification for the National 4×4 Handball Championship after emerging champions of the North Central Zone qualifiers with a hard-fought 10–8 victory over the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the final.
The Benue-based side enjoyed a perfect campaign, winning all four of their matches to finish top of the standings with eight points and an impressive goal difference of +40.
FCT finished in second place with six points, rounding off a strong performance in the competition, while Suleja Academy placed third. Texas Warriors and Liberation Academy completed the standings in fourth and fifth positions respectively.
President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Jibril Saidu Ojih, praised the level of competition displayed throughout the tournament and congratulated Benue Buffaloes for securing their place at the national finals scheduled for September.
Ojih noted that the championship reflects the federation’s commitment to expanding the sport and creating more opportunities for emerging talents across the country.
“The North Central Championship has once again demonstrated the immense talent within our handball community. I congratulate Benue Buffaloes on earning their place at the National 4×4 Championship and commend all participating teams for their sportsmanship and competitive spirit,” he said.
He further explained that the growing popularity of the 4×4 format aligns with the federation’s grassroots development agenda, adding that the competition continues to serve as a platform for identifying and nurturing future stars of Nigerian handball.
The tournament concluded with the presentation of cash prizes and medals to the top three teams, while individual awards were given to the Most Valuable Player, Highest Goal Scorer, and Best Goalkeeper for their outstanding performances.
Dignitaries present at the event included HFN Secretary General Mrs. Monica Otumala, Director of Sports at the Benue State Sports Commission Mr. Anthony Torbundeh, and Chairman of the Benue State Handball Association Mr. Tony Oyih, who hosted the championship.
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