The First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has charged participants at the ongoing 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Club Championship to showcase the true essence of sportsmanship.

The First lady gave the charge when she officially declared the Championship open at the Moshood Abiola, National Stadium, on Thursday in Abuja.

Senator Tinubu, who is the Grand Patron of the tournament, commended the athletes for showcasing their talents in sport.

She described Nigeria as a nation where women are making remarkable strides across all sectors under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, we have witnessed unprecedented reforms aimed at enhancing women’s participation in governance, economics and societal development.

As you compete in this tournament, I encourage you to see yourselves as ambassadors of sports, and of the limitless potential that lies within every African woman.

The discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience you cultivate as athletes are invaluable life skills that will serve you well beyond the volleyball court,” she said.

The first lady further encouraged all participants, to approach both victory and defeat with grace and dignity, adding that at the end of the day, they are all winners for participating in the tournament.

“I warmly invite you to explore our beautiful capital city of Abuja and experience the rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality that Nigeria has to offer.

“At this juncture, I officially declare the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship Tournament open,” she said.

Shehu Dikko, the Chairman, National Sports Commission ( NSC) commended the first lady for accepting to be the grand patron of the tournament.

He acknowledged the Nigeria Customs Service with the support of the NSC for playing the pivotal role in ensuring seamless logistics of the championship.

To the first lady, whose leadership as the grand patron of this event has been invaluable in bringing this championship to life.

“Let this tournament be a celebration of excellence and unbreakable bonds that sports create,” he said.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi in his remarks, described the tournament as a remarkable one that has featured many female athletes.

Source: Voice of Nigeria