Nigeria’s U-18 boys’ and girls’ hockey teams will compete at the 2026 Africa Hockey 5s Championship in Nairobi, Kenya, from August 6 to 8, with both sides aiming to secure qualification for the FIH Hockey5s World Cup later this year.
The Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF) confirmed that Team Nigeria will participate in the continental tournament, which brings together some of Africa’s most talented young players to compete for honours and World Cup places.
Nigeria will be represented by a delegation of 26 players and coaches, including 10 male and 10 female players, who have undergone extensive preparations ahead of the championship.
NHF President Engr. Simon Nkom expressed confidence in the teams’ readiness, describing the tournament as a valuable opportunity for the young players to gain international experience and test themselves against the continent’s best.
‘The U-18 Africa Hockey 5s Championship is a significant opportunity for our young athletes to test their skills against the best on the continent and gain valuable international exposure,’ Nkom said.
‘We are optimistic that both our male and female teams will compete with determination, discipline and the resilience that Nigerian athletes are known for. This tournament also reflects the steady growth and development of grassroots hockey in Nigeria.’