Pauletta Foppa, one of the brightest stars in French women’s handball, has pledged to support the growth of grassroots handball in Nigeria, reconnecting with her Nigerian heritage during a courtesy visit to the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN).
Foppa, whose mother hails from Akwa Ibom State and father is Cameroonian, plays professionally for Brest Bretagne Handball in France’s LFH Division 1 Féminine and has been a key figure in France’s national team, winning the Olympics, World, and European Championships.
Speaking during her visit to HFN President Samuel Ocheho at the Rowe Park Sports Center, Yaba, Lagos, Foppa expressed her excitement at the progress of the sport in Nigeria and her desire to give back.
“I’m proud of my Nigerian roots, and I want to give back by supporting the growth of handball, especially at the grassroots level,” Foppa said.
“One of the ways I hope to do that is by organizing handball clinics for young players across the country.”
She also interacted with players from Tojemarine Academy Handball Club, reigning champions of the Ardova Handball Premier League, as well as FUNAD Female Handball Club, encouraging the players to remain passionate and focused.
HFN President Samuel Ocheho lauded Foppa’s initiative, describing her as a global ambassador of Nigerian heritage.
“Pauletta is a shining example of what Nigerian heritage can produce on the global stage. We’re excited about her plans and will support her initiatives.”
Foppa’s Major Achievements:
- Gold – Tokyo 2020 Olympics
- World Champion – 2023 (vs. Norway)
- European Champion – 2018
- French League Champion – 2021
- French Cup Winner – 2016
