For its founders, Abula is an innovation with a unique Nigerian identity.

In an era where fans crave new sports and new stories, it offers something fresh - a fast, tactical game that is easy to understand but challenging to master.

Daudu Ajayi, a long-serving match official, believes Abula's mix of energy, accessibility and cultural roots could prove appealing.

"Abula is very good for the body. If you play Abula, you look young," he told BBC Sport Africa.

"If you see me now, you think I'm under 50. Whereas I'm over 70."

That blend of fitness and enjoyment has helped the sport maintain its following over the years, particularly in schools and community tournaments.

Abula remains rooted in Nigeria but its players, officials and pioneers believe it is ready for a wider audience.

"I would say Abula has now got into its peak because we now have vibrant young men like me playing," Bayelsa State captain Ike said.

"Abula has everything to be in the international level."

If its supporters succeed, the game that began with teachers losing to their students on a Lagos school court could one day be seen on the world's biggest sporting stage.

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