Nigeria U-18, U-20 Handball Teams Step Up Preparations for IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 in Togo

Nigeria’s Under-18 and Under-20 men’s handball teams have intensified their preparations ahead of the 2026 IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 Tournament scheduled to take place in Lomé, Togo, from April 7 to 11.

The International Handball Federation (IHF) has designated April 6 as the official arrival day, while April 12 will serve as the departure date.

Both squads have been in camp for several days, using the period to strengthen team chemistry, sharpen tactical approaches, and fine-tune strategies as they aim to compete strongly against other West African nations. Coaches have assembled balanced rosters across all positions, ensuring depth and versatility.

For the Under-18 team, the goalkeeping department features Shuaibu Muhammad (FRSC), Muhammad Lawal (Sokoto), and Friday Shuaibu (Abia). The centre back role will be manned by Aliyu Rufai (Sokoto), Sani Muntari (Correctional), and Uba Ahmed (Airforce), while Samuel Achema (Abia), Usman Umar (Sokoto), Obieze Akunebu (Tojemarine), and Godstime Michael (Adamawa) provide options at left back.

The right back line includes Huzaifa Abdulkadir (Sokoto), Gana Abubakar (Suleja), and Lifeseed Ngam (Abia). On the wings, Chikelu Chidebere (Suleja), Hamza Yahaya (Abia), and Mohammed Yahaya (Abia) will operate from the left, while Umar Mohammed (Volcano Cotonou) and Prince John (Abia) cover the right. Dominion Abukhare (Edo) and Akibu Mohammed (Sokoto) complete the centre line.

The Under-20 squad is equally well-prepared, with Attahiru Ab Sahabi and Obabori Samuel Aduralere listed as goalkeepers. The right back position is covered by Ganiu Aduragbemi Emmanuel, Isyaka Mustapha, and David Mause, while Kareem Faruk Olamilekan, Akanni Basit, and Fashogbon Sulaimon will feature at centre back.

Mohammed Musa, Jackson Nelson, and Abode Temitope are expected to play at left back. On the wings, Suleiman Sani, Chuks Moses (Egwuelu), and Panam Isaac will operate from the right, while Mustapha Mohammed and Ahmed Baraya are positioned on the left. The pivot role includes Ibrahim Hayatu, Okolie Olisaemeka Andrew, Yusuf Suleiman, and Abaaka Simon.

The IHF Trophy serves as a vital development platform, offering emerging talents the opportunity to gain international exposure.

Winners at the continental level will receive financial support to compete at the intercontinental phase, with eventual champions qualifying for the World Championship in their respective categories.

With preparations already in full swing, expectations are high that Nigeria’s youth teams will deliver strong performances in Lomé as they seek to secure qualification to the next stage of the global competition.