First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Named Grand Patron of 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship
Abuja, Nigeria – The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been officially invited to serve as the Grand Patron of the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship. The invitation was extended during a courtesy visit by the management of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and key stakeholders in Nigerian volleyball on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the State House, Abuja.
The delegation was led by Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, alongside the Director-General of the Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olapade, and the President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Musa Nimrod. They were accompanied by senior officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, including DCG Caroline Naigwan, DCG Kikelomo Adeola, and DCG Uzor Nwafor.
Also present were members of the Nigeria Customs Service Volleyball Team, represented by Captain ASC Helen Umeh and Assistant Captain ASC Francisca Ikhiede, who expressed excitement over the First Lady’s involvement in the championship.
During the visit, the First Lady was presented with her official kits, signifying her new role as Grand Patron. The delegation emphasized the significance of her support in promoting women’s volleyball in Africa and strengthening Nigeria’s position in international sports.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in her remarks, expressed gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting women’s sports development in Nigeria and beyond. She acknowledged the importance of volleyball in youth empowerment and pledged to use her position to encourage greater participation, sponsorship, and international recognition for female athletes.
The 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship is expected to bring together top teams from across the continent, with Nigeria set to play a key role as a host and competitor. The event will serve as a platform for showcasing Africa’s volleyball talent while fostering regional sports development.
With the First Lady’s endorsement, stakeholders are optimistic that the championship will gain increased visibility and attract the necessary support to ensure its success.