Nigeria's U18 Hockey Teams Aim for World Cup Qualification

Nigeria's U18 boys' and girls' hockey teams are set to participate in the U18 Africa Hockey 5s Championship in Nairobi, Kenya, from August 6 to 8, 2023. This championship is crucial as it serves as the African qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Hockey5s World Cup, scheduled for December in Cairo, Egypt.

The Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), led by President Engr. Simon Nkom, has confirmed that Team Nigeria will consist of 26 athletes and officials, including 10 male players and 10 female players.

The NHF has expressed confidence in the teams' preparedness following extensive training. The tournament will determine which teams qualify for the World Cup, with both champions and runners-up in the boys' and girls' competitions earning spots.

Nkom emphasized the significance of the tournament for the athletes' development and Nigeria's commitment to enhancing grassroots hockey through talent identification and youth competitions.