Sokoto Rima Strikers intensified their challenge against league leaders Tojemarine Academy with a 29-24 win over Lagos Seasiders on day 8 of the 2024 Ardova handball premier league title-deciding phase in Lagos. This victory places Sokoto Rima Strikers in second position on the men's table with 50 points, just two points behind Tojemarine Academy, who secured a straightforward victory against Kogi Confluence Stars. 

The three-time champions, Kano Pillars, returned to form with a narrow 33-32 win over Adamawa Warriors. Defending champions Niger United narrowly defeated Safety Shooters 23-22, while Benue Buffaloes showcased their strength with a 30-19 victory over De Defenders. Corrections Boys also had a commanding performance, defeating Sunshine Kings 40-25.

In the women's division, Safety Babes are on track to claim their fourth consecutive title after a strong win against Plateau Peacocks. They maintain a seven-point lead over second-placed Defender Babes, following their 40-28 victory over the 2018 champions. Defender Babes secured a crucial 40-26 win against Imo Grasshoppers. 

In other matches, River Queens triumphed in the South-South derby, narrowly defeating Delta Queens 30-29. Seasider Babes caused an upset by edging out Sokoto Rima Queens 23-22, while COAS Babes climbed out of the relegation zone with a 39-29 victory over the last-placed Bendel Dynamos.

Day 8 Results (Men)

  • De Defenders 19-30 Benue Buffaloes
  • Correction Boys 40-25 Sunshine Kings
  • Lagos Seasiders 24-29 Rima Strikers
  • Kano Pillars 33-32 Adamawa Warriors
  • Confluence Stars 0-10 Tojemarine Academy
  • Niger United 23-22 Safety Shooters

Day 8 Results (Women)

  • Delta Queens 29-30 Rivers Queens
  • Seasider Babes 23-22 Rima Queens
  • Safety Babes 40-28 Plateau Peacocks
  • COAS Babes 39-29 Bendel Dynamos
  • Imo Grasshoppers 26-40 Defender Babes