Amaka Paul Attributes Success To Coaches, Teammates At African Volleyball Championship

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria Volleyball star, Christiana Amaka Paul has credited her success at the 2026 Africa Women’s Volleyball Championship to the support from her coaches and teammates.

Nigeria’s title defense was aborted in the round of 16 by losing to the hosts, Kenya.

Speaking after the tournament concluded on Friday, September 4, Amaka, who finished as the fourth-best scorer with 94 points and 76 successful attacks, said the encouragement she received throughout the competition gave her the confidence to keep fighting.

“I want to sincerely thank our coach, Elishama Elam, and the entire coaching crew for their support, guidance and belief in us throughout the tournament,” she said.

“I also appreciate my teammates and everyone who supported us. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to keep fighting and giving my best for Nigeria. I will not forget to appreciate the Kenyans for their love and support too.”

Amaka added that the achievement would serve as motivation for the next stage of domestic competition.

“This statistics will encourage me to give my best and improve in my performance when we return to Nigeria for the second phase of the 2026 CGC Volleyball Premier League.”

Nigeria finished the championship in ninth place. Captain Ijeoma Ukpabi ranked eighth among the top scorers with 86 points, while Maryam Ibrahim placed tenth with 74 points.