As Nnewi in Anambra State prepare to host Round 2 of the 2025 Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL) this month, the Chairman of the State Beach Soccer Association, Prof Victor Madubuko is anticipating a great event.
For the second season running, the state will be hosting the league after achieving success staging Round 2 in 2024.
In a chat with www.beachsoccer.ng, Madubuko shed light on what fans should expect in Nnewi when Round 2 of the League takes place.
“We are planning a great event in Nnewi. We want to share our rich culture with the visiting teams and keep the spirit of beach soccer alive. We’re looking forward to some exciting matches and a fantastic atmosphere,” He said.
“It’s been a mixed bag so far. We are working hard to make this outing a success, just like we did last year. We are excited to welcome teams from all over and showcase what Nnewi has to offer.”
Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors, the host team of the next round is the only club in the league from the South Eastern part of the country, a region comprising of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States.
Having a beach soccer team in the region can be challenging as well as rewarding.
“We started from scratch, driven by our love for beach soccer,” He continued.
“We got guidance from the Nigeria Beach Soccer League body, which helped us set up a proper team and board. Before that, we were just a group of friends playing informal beach soccer at Moonshine Residence.
“Honestly, it’s been a tough ride. We spend a lot each year participating in and hosting the Nigeria Beach Soccer League. Despite the financial struggles, our passion for the sport keeps us motivated. We need more support from corporates and the government, but it’s hard to come by.”
Going forward, Madubuko stated the goal of Anambra Beach Soccer Association which is a long term project.
“Our goal is to develop talented players from our local community who can go on to play for the Nigerian national team. We’re also working on setting up a structured state league or competition. For the Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors team, our aim is to win the Nigeria Beach Soccer League and become the best in the world – just like our inspiration, Kebbi Fishers.” He added.
“The appeal came from where I stay at the United States, fall in love with it then came the passion, in a quest to develop it in Anambra from my hometown Nnewi. I stumbled on an already existing structure which is the Nigeria Beach Soccer League.
“For many it is a new kind of sports, it is gaining popularity and interests and I am enjoying the moment.”
Round 2 of the league coincides with the period of new yam festival in Anambra State.
“The hosting is to show the world the rich traditions and culture of Nnewi. The welcoming spirit, the hard working spirit and appreciation to God Almighty.
“The new yam festival (Afiaolu) is the thing we celebrate and thank God for giving us a bountiful harvest of yam, after going into a long farming season which comes with great hardwork.” He concluded.
From August 21 to 23, Nnewi, Anambra State will be the stage where eight teams continue their quest to win the 2025 Nigeria Beach Soccer League in which Madubuko has promised a showpiece.
NBSL MEDIA
18/08/2025
