Two rising stars of Nigerian beach volleyball, Pamela Miyoum Bawa and Esther Onyinye Mbah, are set to make history by representing their country at the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships in Adelaide, Australia. The event will be held from 14 to 23 November at notable venues including The Drive and Pinky Flat.
Teenage Trailblazers in Global Volleyball
At just 14 and 18 years old respectively, Pamela and Esther are among the youngest athletes in the competition. Their early careers already boast impressive milestones, such as participation in the 2024 FIVB U19 World Championships, and in Esther's case, competition at the U21 level in 2023.
Empowerment Through Guidance
Their rise and preparation have been bolstered by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment Programme, which provided $84,000 for a Coach Support Project. As part of this initiative, Brazilian coach Luciano Regis Menegaz has joined the Nigerian national team, offering expert mentorship for both male and female squads over the course of a year.
Strong Start at the Continental Level
The duo's talent was further validated when they earned a bronze medal at the 2025 CAVB Africa Beach Volleyball Championships, proving their competitive potential beyond national borders.
Nigeria’s Tough Tournament Draw
In Pool C of the World Championships, Nigeria will face high-profile opponents:
- Kristen Nuss and Taryn Brasher from the USA
- Emi van Driel and Wies Bekhuis from the Netherlands
- Vitoria De Souza Rodrigues and Hegeile Almeida dos Santos from Brazil
Looking Beyond Adelaide
More than just a competition, the World Championships in Adelaide serve as a springboard for the Nigerian team’s future ambitions, including their eyes on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Their participation embodies Nigeria's growing commitment to youth sports and highlights its emergence on the international beach volleyball scene.
For more details on their journey, visit the official FIVB feature story.
