Catchball launch set to empower girls
By Babatunde Ogunrinde
The Nigeria Catchball Federation (NCF) says Catchball, a new sport in Nigeria, offers competitive benefits and has strong potential to empower the girl child.
A delegation from the NCF stated this during a visit to the Lagos State Sports Commission headquarters at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, on Monday.
The team was received by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende.
The delegation was led by NCF President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Bola Babarinde.
Other members included Mr Ayotunde Ayodeji, Chief Operating Officer, and Dr Ijeoma Ladele, Director of Chapter Development.
Ladele described Catchball as a fast-growing sport for women of all ages, which is quickly gaining traction across Africa.
She highlighted its recreational and competitive value, as well as its ability to empower young girls.
According to her, Catchball reduces street involvement and promotes both mental and physical well-being.
“Lagos has the opportunity to pioneer this sport in Nigeria,” she said.
She added it would drive grassroots sports, empower girls, and boost youth engagement.
In his address, Babarinde noted Catchball’s registration and official recognition journey in Nigeria.
He commended Mr Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, for his support.
He also acknowledged Mr Anthony Adeyinka, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development.
“Their intervention helped secure federation registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission despite initial challenges,” he noted.
Babarinde, also General Secretary of Renewed Hope Global, said the agenda targets 20 million jobs before President Tinubu’s first term ends.
He said Catchball is one of the key employment-generating initiatives under this agenda.
“Lagos will have the honour of launching Catchball, with plans to expand it to secondary and tertiary institutions,” he said.
He added that local government education authorities would integrate it into primary schools as well.
“The long-term plan includes launching a National Catchball League,” he explained.
This would happen after successful adoption across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Mr Nunayon Travih, Director of Sports, Lagos State, expressed willingness to partner with the NCF.
He revealed plans to establish a dedicated department for Catchball in the state. “A joint working committee will ensure smooth implementation,” Travih said.
Dr Oluyomi Oluwasanmi, Director of School Sports, also praised Catchball’s potential to engage Lagos youths.
She said its similarity to volleyball allows players and coaches to transition easily. “It offers a fresh option within the busy school sports calendar,” she noted.
Ogunlende thanked the NCF for selecting Lagos as the launchpad for the sport.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive sports, especially those empowering girls.
He also noted the urgency of the meeting, ahead of Babarinde’s trip to South Africa.
The NCF president will attend the Africa Catchball Championship from June 16 to 26.
Other Lagos dignitaries present included Damilare Orimoloye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports.
Also present were representatives of the Lagos State Sports Commission and other NCF members.
They included Blessing Oluwatimiro, Miss Naomi Nnaji, Haleemah Ojo, and Itohan Imoisili.
According to them, the meeting, held at the Commission’s boardroom, marks the start of a promising sports partnership in Lagos. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Kamal Tayo Oropo
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