Safety Babes, Omo Ogiefo Shine Bright As Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Begins

The Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 served up a thrilling opening day at the indoor sports hall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and Etete Sports Centre in Benin City, Edo State, with Safety Babes and debutants Soof Omo Ogiefo making strong statements in the women’s category.

Holders Safety Babes began their title defence in emphatic fashion, dismantling Ekiti Queens 52–29 in a dominant display that showed their pedigree.

The FRSC-sponsored team, led by Most-Valuable-Player Ada Okey, raced to a 23–13 lead at halftime and never looked back, extending their dominance in the second half to seal a comfortable win.

Newcomer Soof Omo Ogiefo also grabbed the headlines with a stunning performance against more experienced Defender Babes, winning 32–24.

The team from Edo State, cheered on by local supporters, led 15–12 at the break and continued with a disciplined and energetic showing to cap off a memorable top-flight debut.

Blessing Iorlaha’s 11 goals for the Defender Babes failed to rescue her side as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps outfit fell like a pack of cards against Soof Omo Ogiefo.

In a tightly contested encounter, Plateau Peacocks edged Rivers Queens 22–21.

The Jos-based team took a slim 11–9 halftime lead and held their nerves in a tense final stretch to start their campaign with a win, courtesy of Choice Soji leading her team with 9 vital goals.

Meanwhile, in the men’s category, Tojemarine Academy, the reigning champions, opened their title defence with a solid 25–19 victory over newly promoted Osun United.

The Lagos side led 12–7 at halftime and controlled proceedings through disciplined defending and swift counter-attacks.

Other results in the men’s matches saw Rima Strikers edge COAS Shooters 26–25 in a closely fought battle, while Niger United brushed aside Adamawa Warriors 36–24. Safety Shooters overwhelmed Lagos Seasiders 36–18, and Correction Boys proved too strong for De Defenders, cruising to a 26–13 win.

Day 1 Results (Women)

Safety Babes 52-29 Ekiti Queens

Plateau Peacocks 22-21 Rivers Queens

Defender Babes 24-32 Soof Omo Ogiefo

Day 1 Results (Men)

Tojemarine Academy 25-19 Osun United

Sokoto Rima Strikers 26-25 COAS Shooters

Niger United 36-24 Adamawa Warriors

Safety Shooters 36-18 Lagos Seasiders

Correction Boys 26-13 De Defenders