By Ameh Gabriel
In a significant step towards revitalizing handball in Kogi State, the Kogi State Handball Association has appointed Coach Omada Ene-Ojo as its new Technical Director.
The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Jibril Ojih Saidu (FNIQS), during the official inauguration ceremony held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at the Confluence Stadium Complex, Lokoja.
A former professional handball player turned coach, Omada Ene-Ojo brings years of experience and passion for the game to his new role. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to harness and develop local talent and enhance the technical capacity of the sport in the state.
Mr. Saidu, who also serves as the North-Central Representative on the board of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, praised Coach Omada for his dedication, grassroots impact, and unwavering commitment to mentoring young athletes in Kogi.
“This appointment is a recognition of Coach Omada Ene-Ojo’s tireless efforts in promoting handball at the grassroots. We believe his experience and leadership will help drive the transformation we seek in Kogi handball,” Saidu said.
He emphasized that the position comes with significant responsibility, urging the new Technical Director to channel his expertise into elevating the sport’s profile and nurturing the abundant untapped talent across the state.
“There is no room for excuses. Kogi has both the talent and the infrastructure including a standard handball court in Lokoja to become a force in Nigerian handball,” he added.
In his acceptance remarks, Coach Omada Ene-Ojo expressed gratitude to the Chairman and the association for the confidence placed in him. He pledged to justify the trust by working diligently to develop the sport and create more opportunities for young players in the state.
“I’m honored by this appointment and deeply grateful to the association for this recognition. I promise to give my very best in promoting the growth of handball in Kogi State,” he said.
Coach Omada’s appointment is expected to mark a new era of technical and grassroots development for handball in Kogi State.
