Abuja-based clubs, Safety Shooters and Safety Babes, have wrapped up the first phase of the 2025 Ardova Handball Premier League in commanding style, finishing top of the men’s and women’s standings respectively after an intense round of action in Benin City.

The first phase, which concluded on Friday at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, saw high-stakes drama, fine margins, and standout performances across both divisions.

In the men’s category, Safety Shooters edged out COAS Shooters to lead the table, both teams tied on 28 points after 10 games apiece, but Safety claimed the top spot thanks to a superior goal difference. Each side suffered just one loss, underscoring their dominance so far this season.

Rima Strikers sit in third with 25 points after seven wins, one draw, and two losses, while defending champions Tojemarine Academy are just behind in fourth with 24 points (six wins, two draws, two defeats).

Correction Boys rounded out the top five with 22 points from five wins, two draws, and three losses.

Further down the log, Niger United, former league kings placed sixth with 19 points, the same as seventh-placed Osun United, who trail on goal difference. De Defenders are eighth with 16 points, closely followed by Adamawa Warriors on 15 points in ninth.

Benue Buffaloes and Lagos Islanders prop up the table with 12 points each, both sides managing just one win from 10 games. Buffaloes edged the 10th spot on goal difference, leaving Lagos Islanders at the bottom.

In the women’s division, Safety Babes were flawless, winning all seven of their games to finish the phase unbeaten with 21 points.

Rima Queens trail closely in second with 19 points (six wins, one loss), while Plateau Peacocks are third with 15 points, boosted by an impressive run of four wins and three draws.

Imo Grasshoppers placed fourth with 14 points after securing three wins, one draw, and suffering three losses. Omo Ogiefo Academy and Rivers Queens are neck-and-neck in fifth and sixth, respectively, with 13 points each.

Defender Babes had a difficult run managing just one win from seven games to settle in seventh place with 10 points. Ekiti Queens finished bottom without a single win, ending the phase with seven points.

The Ardova Handball Premier League will now shift its focus to the second phase.