The President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Mr. Jibril Saidu Ojih, has expressed deep sympathy to the players, coaches, and management of Benue Buffaloes who were kidnapped on their way back from Lagos after participating in the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 2, which concluded last Friday.
The team, which finished 9th in the just-concluded league, was abducted by armed men while travelling back, just after Otukpo, Benue State but were later rescued through the swift intervention of troops of the Nigeria Army.
In a statement issued on Monday, Mr. Jibril condemned the traumatic experience, describing it as “a sad and heartbreaking ordeal that no athlete, coach, or official should ever be subjected to while also thanking the Nigerian Army for their quick response.
“I extend my deepest sympathy to the entire Benue Buffaloes team. What they went through is unimaginable which no sport person should be subjected to. We thank God and the Nigeria Army for their safe rescue.” Jibril said
The HFN President also sympathised with the Benue State Sports Ministry, acknowledging the emotional and psychological toll the incident has taken on the state’s sports community.
“Our hearts go out to the Benue State Sports Ministry. The board of the Handball Federation of Nigeria and the entire Nigeria handball family is with you in this trying moment. You are not alone.”
Mr. Jibril commended the Nigeria Army for its prompt intervention, noting that their swift response prevented what could have been an even worse situation. He called for improved safety for travelling sports teams, stressing that athlete welfare must be prioritised nationwide.
He reaffirmed the federation’s support for Benue Buffaloes as they recover from the incident. “We will stand by the team and ensure they receive all the support they need as they heal and look forward to future competitions,” he assured.
