The sponsor of the “Opeifa Cup 2025,” Mrs. Adeola Opeifa, has stated that the Lagos State Secondary Schools Handball Competition is a key talent pipeline for national youth teams.

Speaking at the tournament held at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Yaba, the former Chairperson of the Lagos State Handball Association revealed that the championship has already produced players who have represented Nigeria at both junior and senior levels.

“This particular programme has been able to discover those who have represented Nigeria at the junior and senior levels,” Opeifa said. She highlighted the competition’s broader social impact, noting it has helped bring children back to school and mould them into community ambassadors.

With 82 schools participating this year, the competition is also a scouting ground for the state’s team at the upcoming National Youth Games, with plans to “inject new blood” into the squad. Coach Daniel Yohanna praised the high skill level displayed by the young athletes, affirming the event as a vital platform for nurturing future handball stars.