As the first round of the 2023 Ardova Handball Premier League ends in Benin, Edo State capital, the President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) Mr. Sam Ocheho has commended Edo State government for it’s support, hosting a hitch free league in Benin.
The HFN President expressed his appreciation during an interview with journalists at the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, saying that Edo is now home to the Handball Federation of Nigeria.
Ocheho said that everything has been working well for the Handball Federation in Benin.
“We thank God for a hitch free contest in Benin. We are here in Benin for the second time. Recall that Edo State also hosted our Division 1 League and we just ended the phase one of the Premier League in Benin today.
“We want to say a big thank you to our host, Edo State Government. As a matter of fact, we have enjoyed good partnership with Edo State.The partnership is great.The people are great, from the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Chairman of Edo Sports Commission, Olympian Yusuf Alli, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Sabina Chikere and others in the Sports Commission.
“The Deputy Governor particularly takes interest in Handball and we have been enjoying his support with standard facilities on ground.
“The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and Etete Indoors Sports Hall served as venue for the Ardova Handball Premier League which started on July 2, 2023 with 22 teams-12 teams in the male category and 10 in the female category, including Bendel Dynamos male and female teams
The curtains were drawn on the Ardova Handball Premier League at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin on Wednesday evening with Niger United taking the number one position with 30 points from 11 matches while Safety Shooters finished second with 28 points.
Tojemarine Academy and Lagos Seasiders came third and 4th respectively with 27 points apiece, but Tojemarine were superior with 49 goals against 8 of the Seasiders. Kano Pillars finished 5th in the men category.
In the women category, Safety Babes finished as first team on the log with 27 points from 9 matches while Defender Babes came second with 25 points. Rima Queens won the third position with 23 points while Plateau Peacocks and Bendel Dynamos settled for the 4th and 5th positions respectively with 21 and 17 points.
Aminu Aliyu and Ade Okey of Niger Utd and Safety Babes were voted most valuable players on day 11 games.
