TOJEMARINE and Safety Babes have been crowned champions of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2024 on Sunday.
At the grand finale held at the NIS gymnasium at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, Tojemarine produced an elite-level performance to defeat Sokoto Rima Strikers 36-33 and finish top of the men’s standing with 64 points while Sokoto Rima Strikers stayed second with 59 points.
Tojemarine became the first Lagos-based side to emerge champions since the handball league began in Nigeria.
Tojemarine also became the first team in the South-West region in the open era to win the title.
2023 winners, Niger United defeated Corrections Boys 38-24 to finish third with 58 points while Safety Shooters failed to make the podium for the first time since 2019.
Sunshine Kings and Confluence Stars were relegated to the lower division.
In the women’s category, Safety Babes swept an unprecedented fourth straight crown and an overall fifth title after defeating second-placed Defender Babes 36-32 to finish top of the table with 54 points.
The victory also stretched Safety Babes’ winning streak to 53 matches dating back to 2022.
COAS Babes and Bendel Dynamos dropped to the second division.
The Chairman of Ardova Plc, Abdulwasiu Sowami, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to promoting youth development through sports.
“We are deeply committed to initiatives that empower our youth and promote healthy lifestyles. By investing in young people, we are not just nurturing athletes; we are fostering national cohesion and grooming future leaders who will shape a better society,” he said.
On his part, the President of the Handball Federation Of Nigeria, Samuel Ocheho, applauded Ardova Plc for partnering with the federation to bring glory to the country.
“This year’s Ardova premier league has been a resounding success. Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed an extraordinary display of talent, discipline, and teamwork,” Ocheho said. “The players and coaches have given their best, delighting us with thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. They have shown us the beauty of the sport and demonstrated that Nigerian handball is alive with immense potential.”
Defender Babes’ Bolanle Abdulrasaq claimed the top scorer’s award with 151 goals
Imo Grasshoppers’ Ohakwe Udochukwu was voted as the most valuable player of the tournament.