By ADERONKE OJO

The Secretary-General of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Salisu Mamman, says the federation is fully prepared for the 2026 Nigeria Super Hockey League (NSHL) scheduled to hold in Abuja.

Mamman said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the league would hold from June 25 to July 5 at the AstroTurf of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

According to him, all critical arrangements for the championship are progressing smoothly.

Mamman said athletes had already begun arriving at camp and training sessions were underway ahead of the competition.

“We are in high spirits.

“We have planned and put things on the ground and, as of now, our athletes have started arriving in camp.

“They are training, and we have been sorting out logistics.

“Most of the items required for the competition are already on ground,” he said.

The NHF secretary-general said the federation had engaged relevant departments responsible for medical services, safety and security to ensure a hitch-free tournament.

“We have already written to the medical department seeking their support and attention.

“The same applies to safety and security.

“Those arrangements are already in place, and we are working closely with them,” he said.

Mamman assured hockey enthusiasts of a highly competitive championship, with teams expected to showcase diverse skills, techniques and tactical approaches.

“You will see entirely different performances from different teams with different skills and techniques.

“I promise hockey lovers an exciting competition.

“More than 25 teams, comprising male and female teams from across the country, are expected to participate,” he said.

He also commended the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC) towards the successful organisation of the league.

Mamman added that the host team, FCT Hockey Club, was expected to be fully in camp by next week.

NAN reports that Kaduna-based Kada Stars won the men’s title of the 2025 Nigeria Super Hockey League, while Kada Queens emerged champions in the women’s category. (NAN)

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