Abula Volley-Tennis: Growing impact of a Nigerian Sport to the world

Mallam Elias Folusho Yusuf, a retired Director of Education in Nigeria and graduate of the University of Lagos, made a remarkable contribution to the world of sports over four decades ago by inventing the Abula game, internationally known as Volley-Tennis. His lifelong dedication to education and physical activity laid the foundation for this groundbreaking sport, which has grown from a local concept to one of national and international significance.

The Origins of Abula

Abula is played with specially designed wooden bats featuring three handles and a tennis-sized ball. Players aim to hit the ball over a net from one side of the court to the other. Depending on their strategy, players can grip the bat with one hand or use both for greater control.

The inspiration for the game struck Mallam Yusuf in Lagos, where he watched secondary school students playing football and observed the ball soaring through the air. That moment sparked an idea: a sport where the ball rises in a controlled, dynamic way to make the game more exciting. Though the early versions of Abula were imperfect, Yusuf’s perseverance refined it into the captivating game now enjoyed nationwide and beyond.

From Demonstration to Competitive Sport

In 1996, Abula was first introduced as a demonstration event under the traditional sports category in Nigeria. Just two years later, it became a scoring event at the 1998 Imo National Sports Festival, cementing its status as an official sport. This pivotal achievement opened doors for the game’s inclusion in other major sporting events, such as the National Youth Games and the National Sports Festival (NSF).

As Abula’s popularity spread across Nigeria, it began gaining traction in other African countries, with growing interest in integrating it into the All African Games. The sport’s advocates now aim for its eventual inclusion in global competitions like the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics.

National Growth and International Ambitions

Over the years, Abula has evolved with the development of modern equipment, including newly designed bats proudly manufactured in Nigeria. These innovations reflect the sport’s impact not only on the nation’s sporting culture but also on its economy.

In an interview with Business Hallmark, Mallam Yusuf expressed pride in the evolution of his creation.

“Abula showcases Nigeria’s creativity and strengthens our national unity through sports,” he said. He remains committed to advocating for the sport’s global recognition and hopes that international stakeholders will embrace its potential.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind the game, he added, “The idea came from watching school children play and toss the ball into the air. That moment sparked something within me, and I knew I had to create something new.” While Yusuf believes that Abula will outlive him, his greatest aspiration is to witness the sport’s inclusion in prestigious events like the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and All African Games.

Praise from Sports Experts

Sunday Agunbiade, a respected sports presenter from Ibadan, shared his enthusiasm for Abula. “The game is captivating and engaging,” Agunbiade said, recalling his first encounter with it during the Edo 2020 National Sports Festival. “I’ve been hooked ever since, to the best of my knowledge, this might be the first time an indigenous sport is gaining such widespread attention.” He urged the Nigerian government to invest more in Abula, ensuring that it achieves the international recognition it deserves.

Tobi Atobatele, a journalist with Mundial Sports, also emphasized the game’s significance. Having discovered Abula 12 years ago while covering school sports in Lagos, Atobatele highlighted the sport’s strategic demands. “Abula requires mental sharpness. Players must read the game carefully and time their shots with precision to gain an advantage,” he explained. “The excitement is unmatched—it keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.” Atobatele believes the game’s inclusion in international events like the Olympics is long overdue.

Poised for Global Impact

With its deep roots in Nigeria and growing international presence, Abula is on the path to becoming a featured sport in global competitions. As interest in the game spreads across Africa and beyond, Mallam Yusuf’s vision continues to inspire athletes and sports enthusiasts worldwide.

The journey of Abula (Volley-Tennis) reflects not only the creativity and resilience of its inventor but also Nigeria’s potential to make lasting contributions to the global sporting landscape. As it gains momentum, the dream of seeing Abula played on the world’s biggest stages draws closer to reality