The 2024 Beach Volleyball Star Tour’s final phase is set to take place in Bauchi City, Bauchi State, from November 11 to 18. According to DCP Stephen Hasso (RTD), the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, the event will feature 24 teams vying for the grand prize at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium. Hasso expressed gratitude to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for his support in hosting this pivotal competition, underscoring the importance of governmental backing for the success of such sporting events.
Highlighting the significance of the tour, Hasso pointed out that the organization of this event marks a new chapter for beach volleyball in Nigeria, especially following Engineer Musa Nimrod’s appointment as President of the CAVB Beach Volleyball Commission. His leadership has been instrumental in elevating the profile of beach volleyball across Africa, and Hasso believes that this acknowledgment brings Nigeria to the forefront of beach volleyball in Sub-Saharan Africa. Formerly overshadowed, beach volleyball is gaining traction, particularly in Bauchi State, which has established itself as a competitive hub for the sport.
Bauchi State has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to beach volleyball, with Hasso noting that the state has consistently fielded strong teams throughout the tour. This dedication has positioned Bauchi as home to some of the best beach volleyball players on the continent. Hasso’s remarks underscore the pride and sense of accomplishment felt within the state as it prepares to host such a significant event. The local athletes will be competing not just for the trophy, but also for recognition on a larger platform.
Hasso described the upcoming tour as one of the most important beach volleyball events in West Africa, with massive participation from teams in both the Star and Open tours. The event emphasizes Nigeria’s pioneering role in organizing significant beach volleyball competitions, such as the President’s Cup and the Star/Open Tour. This achievement is particularly notable as it sets the standard for future competitions in the region, potentially attracting more international attention to the sport within Nigeria.
The Chairman also called upon beach volleyball enthusiasts from the North Central and North East regions to come out in large numbers to support the teams and experience the thrill of high-level competition. The anticipation surrounding the event reflects a collective desire to grow the popularity of beach volleyball in Nigeria, and engaging local fans is a critical component of that strategy. The involvement of the community can enhance the atmosphere and provide the much-needed support to the athletes participating.
Furthermore, Hasso announced that the commission plans to make beach volleyball more appealing to private investors, aiming to bolster financial support for the sport. Encouraging private investment is crucial for the ongoing development and sustainability of beach volleyball in Nigeria. With the right backing, the sport could see significant growth and popularity, ultimately fostering talent and further establishing Nigeria’s reputation as a formidable player in the international beach volleyball arena.
