Breaking: NVBF Unveils Japanese Coach Ryan Masajedi As Technical Adviser

The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) has unveiled Japanese tactician Ryan Masajedi as the new Technical Adviser to the country’s national volleyball teams, with the experienced coach set to lead Nigeria’s quest for continental success.

Masajedi was officially presented on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Package B, Abuja, where the federation outlined its plans to strengthen the national teams and accelerate grassroots development.

Speaking during the unveiling, NVBF President, Engineer Musa Nimrod, said the Japanese coach would immediately assume duty with the senior women’s national team as preparations intensify for the 2026 African Nations Championship in Kenya.

He added that Masajedi would also take charge of the men’s national team ahead of the African Nations Championship in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

According to Nimrod, the coach’s responsibilities will extend beyond the senior national teams, as he is expected to spearhead talent identification and development programmes across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The NVBF president disclosed that Masajedi’s appointment is for an initial 12-month period under an agreement supported by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), with the Nigerian federation providing additional support.

“Coach Ryan Masajedi will immediately join the national women’s team in camp as preparations continue for the African Nations Championship in Kenya. He will also lead the men’s team for the championship in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“He will help us drive our developmental programmes by visiting the six geopolitical zones to identify talents, work with coaches and contribute to the growth of volleyball across the country,” Nimrod said.

Responding, Masajedi thanked the federation for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to use his experience to improve volleyball in Nigeria.

The Japanese coach said he would work with all the national teams, from the senior sides to the junior categories, while helping to establish a sustainable development structure for the sport.

Masajedi also expressed confidence in the quality of Nigerian players, insisting that with proper planning, structure and preparation, the country has the potential to become a major force in African and international volleyball.