s the 2022 National Division.One Handball League commenced in Benin City,Edo State capital on Sunday, October 9, 2022, the President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) Mr. Samuel Ocheho has commended the Edo State government for partnering with the federation in improving the development of the game.

Ocheho gave the commendation while declaring the League open in Benin, saying that the commitment of the Edo state government to sports development has given life back to sports in the state,adding that handball particularly has grown firm roots since the Edo State government stated its commitment to hosting and sponsoring the second tier league.

“I must say kudos to the Edo State government for deciding to partner with us as a federation to continue in the development of Handball in the country.

“I must say that in the past years sports in general has really grown in Edo State because of the government’s deliberate effort in ensuring that the sector is serious attention for sustainable development and I must say that, Handball being one of the sports in focus, has grown in leaps and bounds since the state government committed itself to hosting and sponsoring the league.” Ocheho said.

“This is the second edition of a four year sponsorship agreement and we hope it will continue to be a mutually beneficial relationship between HFN and the Edo state government.” Ocheho enthused.

The Handball Division one league commenced on Sunday, October 9,2022 as scheduled
with the arrival of all the participants made up of male and female teams in readiness to battle for two slots in each category.

Actions began on Monday,October 10th after the draws with Bayelsa Queens out scoring their opponents Delta Force girls 31-22 to secure their first victory in the opening game at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium indoors Sports Hall.
In day fixtures, Bendel Dynamos smashed Confluence Kings 27-13 in their first game.
Bendel Dynamos have Correctional Boys to contend with in their second game on Wednesday, October 12. Time is 9: 00 AM .

The second tier league which is being organised by the Handball Federation of Nigeria(HFN) and sponsored by Edo State government, is a promotional league which will produce four teams ( two each in the men and women category) to gain promotion to play in the Prudent Energy Handball Premier League 2023.

The League is expected to be concluded on Sunday, October 16 at the indoor sports hall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
The nine participating clubs include Bendel Dynamos, Confidence Kings,Correctional Boys,Delta Force and Idah Pillars in the male category. The female teams include Abia Valliants,Bayelsa Queens, Delta Force and Mindscope Academy.