Top women’s volleyball clubs in Africa have begun battle for the top prize at the 2025 Africa Women’s volleyball club championship in Abuja.

The tournament was declared open by the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

While charging participants to compete clean, the First Lady also challenged them to take advantage of the championship to make their mark in the sport.

“The athletes before us today perfectly embody what we advocate for – women boldly claiming their space and demonstrating that gender is never a limitation to excellence.

“Each of you represents your nation, as well as the unlimited potential of African womanhood. Seeing these talented young African women gathered here, poised to showcase their exceptional skills and sporting excellence, fills my heart with profound joy and optimism for our continent’s future,” she said.

She admonished the athletes to see themselves as ambassadors of sports and inspiration to other young girls and women.

“As you compete in this tournament, I encourage you to see yourselves as ambassadors of sports, and of the limitless potential that lies within every African woman. The discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience you cultivate as athletes are invaluable life skills that will serve you well beyond the volleyball court.

“To all participants, I encourage you to approach both victory and defeat with grace and dignity, you are all winners. To the winner, recognize that your success inspires countless young girls watching from the stands and from homes across Africa. The true essence of sportsmanship lies in how we conduct ourselves in both triumphant and challenging moments,” HHe first lady added.

Hosts, Nigeria Customs Service and Chief of Naval Staff Strikers are representing Nigeria in this year’s tournament.

The official opening game saw the Customs Ladies go up against Mayo of Cameroon in a battle of familiar rivals.

The tournament will see 16 teams compete for honours as it has been officially declared open by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu who is the grand patron of the championship.

The two-week championship ends on 14th April, 2025, with the top two teams qualifying automatically for the world championship.