Martin Melandi, the Technical Director of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, has outlined the federation’s strategic objectives, primarily focusing on securing a ticket for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and ensuring participation in the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Melandi shared these aspirations during the closing remarks of the 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star/Open Tour held at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria in Ibadan, Oyo State. He emphasized the urgent need to maintain Nigeria’s status as a leading team in Africa by consistently achieving podium finishes in both international and continental competitions.
Melandi reflected on the promising future of Nigerian volleyball, particularly highlighting the potential of the U-19 girls’ team, which has already established itself as a powerhouse in Africa. Their recent accomplishments include winning the African Championship in Morocco and finishing second in the Olympic qualifier, which held only one available ticket for the Olympics. The current players, who are only 19 years old, are expected to mature and gain further international experience by the next Olympic Games. Melandi expressed optimism that, with continued development and perseverance, Nigeria can secure the African ticket for the ensuing Olympic event.
In a bid to elevate the popularity of beach volleyball across Nigeria, Melandi announced plans to embark on a nationwide talent hunt. By relocating beach volleyball events to various states, including Ibadan, the federation aims to create greater awareness of the sport. This approach signifies a shift in strategy, intending to reach beyond traditional volleyball hubs like Abuja and Lagos, thus engaging regions ready to embrace and host the sport. Melandi believes that by diversifying the locations of competitions, the federation can promote the sport more robustly and discover hidden talents throughout the country.
Furthermore, the Technical Director emphasized the importance of partnerships to advance the sport of volleyball in Nigeria. By inviting organizations and philanthropists to support their initiatives, the federation hopes to not only enhance the development of beach volleyball but also improve the country’s overall volleyball infrastructure. Such collaborations are seen as crucial for nurturing emerging talents and further cultivating a culture of excellence within the sport. This inclusive approach aims to establish a sustainable framework for the growth of volleyball in Nigeria.
The commitment to grassroots development is evident in Melandi’s vision for beach volleyball’s future in Nigeria. By deploying various competitions to different states, the federation intends to engage young athletes and generate local interest. This initiative is poised to help unearth new talent that might otherwise remain unnoticed, fostering a new generation of players who could represent Nigeria in future international competitions. Melandi’s proactive strategy reflects a thorough understanding of the requirements necessary for enhancing the nation’s sports performance on a global stage.
In summary, the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, under the leadership of Martin Melandi, is dedicated to achieving significant milestones, both in securing Olympic and Commonwealth Games participation and in popularizing beach volleyball domestically. With a focus on youth development, regional outreach, and strategic partnerships, the federation aims not only to elevate the sport in Nigeria but also to maintain the country’s reputation as a leading force in African volleyball. As the federation moves forward, Melandi’s approach holds promise for a brighter future for Nigerian volleyball on the global stage.
