From Underdogs to National Champions: The Inspiring Rise of Beach Soccer in Anambra Amid Funding Challenges

By #anambradaily Staff Writer

In just three years, Anambra has transformed from a newcomer in beach soccer into one of Nigeria’s most successful forces in the sport. But despite producing national champions and hosting elite competitions, the state’s beach soccer revolution continues to thrive largely on private sacrifice rather than government support.

Anambra State is steadily establishing itself as the beach soccer capital of Southeast Nigeria, thanks to the remarkable achievements of the Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors and the unwavering commitment of the Anambra Beach Soccer Association (ABSA).

Established in 2023, the association is the brainchild of sports enthusiast and philanthropist Prof. Victor Madubuko, whose vision has turned beach soccer into one of the fastest-growing sports in the state despite significant financial and institutional challenges.

Within a short period, the Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors have become one of the country’s top-performing teams. Their defining moment came in 2025, when they stunned more established clubs to emerge champions of the Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL), finishing top of the league table and lifting the coveted trophy.

The victory was historic, making Anambra the first state in the Southeast to win the Nigeria Beach Soccer League title.

The association’s outstanding contributions were further recognised in 2025 when it received the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra Chapter Award as the Most Active Sports Association in the state.

Beyond trophies, ABSA has invested in infrastructure and sports development. A standard beach soccer arena was constructed in Nnewi, enabling Anambra to successfully host the Nigeria Beach Soccer League on two occasions. The events attracted top clubs from across Nigeria and helped popularise the sport among youths and sports enthusiasts in the state.

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“ADSA has consistently placed Anambra on the national map as one of Nigeria’s leading beach soccer teams while creating opportunities for young talents through the sport.”

The Nigeria Beach Soccer League is a four-stage national championship held across different locations, including Kebbi, Kaduna, Akwa Ibom and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Participation requires significant financial resources covering transportation, accommodation, feeding and registration.

For the past three seasons, these responsibilities have been borne almost entirely by Prof. Victor Madubuko, whose personal commitment has ensured that Anambra has never missed a league campaign since the sport was introduced in the state in 2023.

Despite these remarkable achievements, the association says it has received little support from the Anambra State Government.

Although ABSA is officially recognised and registered with the Anambra State Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, a prerequisite for government sponsorship, the association has yet to benefit from meaningful state support.

Many stakeholders were particularly disappointed that the Warriors’ historic 2025 Nigeria Beach Soccer League triumph received no formal celebration or recognition from the state government.

Yet, Prof. Madubuko remains committed to his vision.

“Beach soccer is more than a game; it is a platform for youth empowerment, talent discovery and projecting Anambra positively on the national stage.”

Sports enthusiasts believe sustained government backing, private sector investment and corporate sponsorship would enable the association to build on its achievements, produce more national stars and position Anambra as Nigeria’s undisputed home of beach soccer.

As the sport continues to grow, many believe its success story should not only be celebrated but also supported. Beyond entertainment, beach soccer offers opportunities for youth development, tourism, economic activity and brand visibility for corporate partners willing to invest in the future of the game.