The 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Club Championship has officially begun in Abuja, Nigeria. The tournament was declared open by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who charged participants to compete with integrity and make their mark in the sport.

In her opening remarks, First Lady Tinubu praised the athletes, saying they embody the spirit of women claiming their space and demonstrating excellence. She encouraged them to see themselves as ambassadors of sports and inspiration to young girls and women.

The First Lady emphasized that the discipline, teamwork, and resilience cultivated as athletes are invaluable life skills that will serve them well beyond the volleyball court.

The tournament features 16 teams competing for honors. Hosts Nigeria are represented by the Nigeria Customs Service and Chief of Naval Staff Strikers. The official opening game saw the customs ladies go up against Mayo of Cameroon in a battle of familiar rivals.

The championship will run for two weeks, concluding on July 14. The top two teams will automatically qualify for the world championship. First Lady Oluremi Tinubu serves as the grand patron of the championship.