Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) has released encomiums in honour of a former player and coach, Lady Chinyere Nwanegbu, whose death the sector is mourning, while recognising her commitment towards grooming female players in the sport.
Sports247 reports that this aspect of Nwanegbu’s life and other laudable values she exuded during her time on earth were highlighted in a condolence message issued by the NVBF, whose president, Engineer Musa Nimrod, led in showering accolades on the icon.
The statement signed by NVBF’s media and publicity committee chairman, Godspower Avwerosuoghene Odedede, noted that the president and board received news about the death of Lady ‘Mbeke’ Nwanegbu (nee Onuoha) with profound sadness.
The NVBF, while noting that she was a former captain of Nigeria’s women’s national volleyball team and, until her death, a coach of the same squad, added: “Lady Nwanegbu, who hailed from Mbeke in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, was a distinguished figure in Nigerian volleyball.
“(Her) life was dedicated to the development and advancement of the sport. From her days as a national team player and captain to her service as a national team coach, she made valuable contributions to the growth of women’s volleyball in Nigeria.
“Her transition from the court as a player to the technical bench as a coach reflected her enduring commitment to the game and her desire to nurture talents and inspire the next generation of female volleyball players.
“On behalf of the Board, management, players, coaches, officials and the entire volleyball community, the President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Engineer Musa Nimrod, expresses heartfelt condolences to her immediate family, friends, colleagues, former teammates, players, and the government and people of Imo State.”
While also noting that her death is not only a loss to her family and community, the NVBF added that the whole of Nigeria’s volleyball sector, including players, coaches, officials and stakeholders are mourning the exit of a rare gem who brought glory home to the country.
“The Federation acknowledges her service, dedication and sacrifices to Nigerian volleyball and prays that the legacy she leaves behind will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
“As we mourn this painful loss, we take solace in the knowledge that her contributions to Nigerian volleyball will remain part of the sport’s history. Though she has departed, her memory will endure in the hearts of those she coached, those who played alongside her, and the many lives she touched through the game.
The Nigeria Volleyball Federation prays that Almighty God grants her soul eternal rest and gives her family, loved ones and the entire volleyball community the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“Rest in peace, Lady Chinyere Nwanegbu (Mbeke). Your service to Nigerian volleyball will never be forgotten,” the NVBF’s condolence message concluded on a solemn yet very memorable note.
