The 2026 season of the Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL) will begin in Kebbi from March 19 to March 22, marking the league’s sixth season. This year, the NBSL aims to introduce regional and continental competitions to enhance the profile of beach soccer across Africa.
The league’s second round is scheduled to take place in Kaduna from April 10 to April 12, with the season concluding in Abuja around May 31. Mahmud Hadejia, a spokesperson for the NBSL, emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive league, stating, “For us at the NBSL, the key thing is to ensure that the league remains competitive so that players are actively playing beach soccer through their clubs.”
A new team, BAM Projects from Kebbi, will make its debut this season after emerging from the local league, adding fresh talent to the competition. Grassroots competitions have already been held in Kebbi, Akwa Ibom, and Anambra to strengthen beach soccer development in Nigeria.
The NBSL plays a critical role in keeping players match-fit ahead of international competitions, including the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. Hadejia noted, “We will start with regional competitions before moving to the continental level, where champions from countries like Nigeria and Ghana will compete.”
Former professional footballers are being encouraged to contribute to the development of beach soccer in the league, sharing their experiences with younger talents. Hadejia remarked, “We are encouraging former players to come on board and share their experience with younger talents.”
Additionally, beach soccer will be introduced at the games organized by the Nigeria University Games Association later this year, further promoting the sport at the grassroots level. The NBSL continues to provide visibility and engagement opportunities for corporate partners, enhancing the commercial aspect of the league.
As the season approaches, observers are keen to see how the introduction of new teams and the focus on competitive play will impact the growth of beach soccer in Nigeria and beyond.