It was a day of excitement, cheers, and renewed hope for Nigerian handball as Ojih Jubril Saidu from Kogi State, the North Central Zonal Representative of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), emerged as the new President of the federation on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
The election, held at Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, witnessed a closely contested race between Saidu and Mr. John Oris. Saidu secured 9 votes, defeating Oris, who polled 5 votes, to become the new head of Nigeria’s handball governing body.
Read Also: Nigerian Defender Nafiu Muhammad Earns Deserved Deal with Kano’s Tura FC After Impressive Trial
In the vice-presidential race, Otunba Sylvester Ikujamoye also clinched victory by the same 9–5 margin, emerging as the new Vice President of the Federation.
A total of 14 stakeholders — including zonal representatives and affiliate associations — participated in the transparent and peaceful election, which has been hailed as a democratic milestone in the administration of Nigerian sports.
The victory of Saidu has been greeted with widespread celebration across the handball community, as fans, players, and officials expressed optimism about a new era of reform, inclusivity, and grassroots development in the sport.
Speaking shortly after his victory, Saidu pledged to revive handball across Nigeria, strengthen youth participation, and enhance the country’s competitiveness on the continental stage.
“This victory is not just mine — it’s for every handball lover across Nigeria,” Saidu said. “Together, we will build a stronger, united, and more vibrant handball family.”
With his election, hopes are high that Nigerian handball is set for a fresh chapter of progress, stability, and national pride
