Federation of International Hockey (FIH) instructor Michael Berhman has called on the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF) to create more opportunities for domestic clubs to compete internationally.
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Berhman made the appeal after monitoring matches in the ongoing 2026 Nigeria Hockey League, where he praised the quality and potential of the players while stressing the importance of exposure to higher levels of competition.
“Nigerian clubs need more international exposure. Playing against stronger opposition will accelerate the development of both the players and the teams,” Berhman said.
The experienced hockey instructor noted that the country’s domestic league has produced several talented players capable of competing beyond Nigeria but believes they need regular international competition to maximise their potential.
He urged the federation to organise foreign tours and exchange programmes that would expose Nigerian clubs to different playing styles and higher standards of competition.
“The talent is here. What the players need now is the opportunity to test themselves regularly against top teams from other countries,” he added.
Berhman commended the progress made in the Nigeria Hockey League, describing the standard of play as encouraging and a positive sign for the future of the sport.
He expressed confidence that increased international participation would not only improve individual players but also strengthen Nigerian hockey’s competitiveness on the continental and global stage.
