Jade Popoola Makes History as First Captain of Nigeria’s Green Hawks

Nigeria’s New Netball Team Targets World Cup Qualification

Jade Popoola has been named the first-ever captain of Nigeria’s women’s national netball team, the Green Hawks, as the country prepares for its debut campaign at the 2026 Africa Netball Cup in Nairobi, Kenya.

The Nigeria Netball Federation announced Popoola’s appointment on Sunday, describing her selection as an important milestone for the country’s developing national team.

At 22, Popoola brings valuable experience from her time in English netball. She was selected for the England Roses Academy at the age of 17 and later became vice-captain of the England Under-21 team at the 2023 Netball Europe competition, where the team won a gold medal.

She also gained professional experience in England’s Netball Super League, playing for London Pulse and Loughborough Lightning. Popoola studied Human, Social and Political Sciences at the University of Cambridge.

Green Hawks Prepare for Major Challenge

Popoola will lead Nigeria at the Africa Netball Cup, scheduled to take place in Nairobi from September 19 to 26. The competition will also serve as the African regional qualifiers for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia.

Nigeria has been drawn in Pool 2 alongside hosts Kenya, Uganda, Malawi and Zambia. The Green Hawks are scheduled to begin their campaign against Kenya on September 19, before facing Uganda on September 20.

Their remaining group matches are against Malawi on September 21 and Zambia on September 22.

The team is expected to arrive in Nairobi on September 18, following preparations that have included training in London and international exposure.

Coach Confident Ahead of Tournament

Head coach Alison Akinrinsola said the team’s preparations, including international matches against Jamaica, Pakistan and Scotland, had helped the players identify areas for improvement.

She stressed that Nigeria would not travel to the competition merely to participate but would aim to compete strongly.

Nigeria Netball Federation president Toyin Aluko also expressed confidence in the players and technical crew, saying the Green Hawks represent an important step towards restoring Nigeria’s presence on the international netball stage.

With Popoola leading the team, Nigeria will be hoping to make a strong impression in Nairobi and secure a place at the 2027 Netball World Cup.

Vibnexa Media — Sports News