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Summary
Pauletta Foppa pledges support for grassroots handball development in Nigeria during a visit to the Handball Federation of Nigeria in Lagos.
French international handball star Pauletta Foppa has pledged her support for the development of grassroots handball in Nigeria. She expressed a commitment to giving back to the country through youth-focused initiatives.
During a recent visit to Lagos, Pauletta paid a courtesy call to the President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Samuel Ocheho, at Rowe Park Sports Centre in Yaba. Accompanied by her parents, she admired the progress of handball in Nigeria and expressed her desire to contribute to its development.
“I’m proud of where I come from,” Pauletta said, tracing her maternal roots to Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and her paternal heritage to Cameroon.
“One of the ways I hope to do that is by organising handball clinics for young players across the country. I also look forward to partnering with the Handball Federation of Nigeria to provide more opportunities and motivation for upcoming talents.”
Pauletta’s visit included an interactive session with the Tojemarine Academy Handball Club current champions of the Ardova Handball Premier League, as well as the young players of FUNAD Female Handball Club. She shared words of encouragement, urging them to stay focused and bold in their pursuit of excellence.
HFN President Samuel Ocheho praised Pauletta’s dedication and emphasised the significance of her visit. “Pauletta embodies excellence and pride in heritage,” he said. “Her presence here will inspire a new generation. We are committed to supporting her vision for grassroots development and youth engagement.”
Pauletta Foppa is a key player for France’s national handball team and Brest Bretagne Handball in the French Women’s League.
Foppa’s influence in international handball is unquestionable, with accolades that include an Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games, a 2023 World Championship title, and a European Championship win on home soil in 2018. She has also clinched domestic titles with her club, including the French league in 2021 and the French Cup in 2016.
