ABIA GIRLS CLAIM DOUBLE GOLD AT NATIONAL HANDBALL CHAMPIONSHIP 2026

The National Under 12 and Under 15 Handball Championship ended on a high note for Team Abia, with the state’s female teams clinching gold in both categories, while the boys secured bronze in the Under 12 and Under 15 divisions.

At the centre of it all was a strong showing from Abia’s Under 15 girls, who successfully defended their title to emerge champions for the second year in a row. They defeated Nuella Angels 36–29 in the final, confirming their consistency and dominance at this level. Nuella Angels finished second, while Girl Child of Benue came third.

In the male Under 15 category, Team Niger emerged champions after defeating C and S of Kogi 46–36 in the final. Abia claimed third place after beating Kwara 34–21.

The Under 12 girls also delivered an outstanding performance, as Abia defeated Nuella Angels 28–4 to secure another gold medal. Nuella Angels placed second, while Girl Child finished third after losing 19–12.

In the Under 12 male category, Niger defeated Abia 17–14 in a closely contested final. Abia finished second, just three goals behind, while Girl Child placed third.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Mrs Jane Maxwell Igwe, declared the championship closed on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner. She commended the organisers for a successful event and encouraged the athletes to remain focused and committed to their growth in sports. She also noted that the state’s one week one sport initiative continues to create opportunities for young talents to develop.

For Abia, the message is clear. The girls have set the standard with two gold medals, while the boys showed resilience with podium finishes. The task ahead is to sustain this level and build on the progress made.