The National Volleyball Division One and Division Two Leagues have officially kicked off in Umuahia, Abia State, featuring 34 teams from 22 states across the country.

In one of the opening matches, the Ajase-Ipo Volleyball Team of Kwara secured a convincing victory over Adamawa, winning 25–18, 28–27, 25–15 in the Division One category on Friday.

The league, which includes both male and female categories, is sponsored by the Abia State Government. Participating teams include Abia, Sokoto, Ekiti, Katsina, Adamawa, Kwara, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Plateau, and others.

According to the organisers, the top two teams from Division Two will gain promotion to Division One, while the bottom two from Division One will be relegated. The two best-performing teams from Division One will also earn a spot in the Nigerian Volleyball Premier League.

Speaking at the event’s opening, Abia State Director of Sports, Obioma George, commended Governor Alex Otti and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Nwaobilor Ananaba, for transforming Abia into Nigeria’s leading sports destination. He highlighted that the state has successfully hosted more than fifteen national and international sporting events.

George also praised the resurgence of the Abia State female volleyball team, noting that they are now ranked second in the league after years of decline. He assured all participating states of a well-organised and comfortable tournament.

Meanwhile, the 2nd Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Volleyball Referees Association, Mohammed Mohammed, who serves as Referee Coach for the championship, pledged fair officiating and urged players to uphold discipline and sportsmanship throughout the competition.