Tayo Ogunseye
Security concerns at the Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja occasioned by a planned protest by a religious sect has delayed the official unveiling of Japanese tactician Ryan Masajedi as the new head coach of Nigeria’s national volleyball teams by the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF).
The Japanese appointment is expected to spike the sports into a new era as the federation planned to present him to the media and other stakeholders at the Indoor Sports Hall, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The venue which has also been chosen for a protest by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria but was not approved by the authority, has attracted attention from security operatives including the Nigeria Army creating a palpable atmosphere around the iconic arena.
Chairman of the NVBF Media and Publicity Committee, Godspower Odedede, said the appointment represents a major step in the federation’s drive to strengthen the technical development of volleyball in Nigeria and improve the competitiveness of the country’s national teams at both continental and international levels.
Masajedi is expected to introduce the renowned Japanese coaching philosophy, which emphasizes technical discipline, tactical innovation and structured player development. The federation believes his international experience will provide a solid technical foundation for sustained success while preparing Nigeria’s national teams for major competitions, including the forthcoming African Nations Cup.
The federation also noted that the appointment reflects its long-term vision of repositioning Nigerian volleyball through quality coaching, enhanced player development and improved performances on the global stage.
