Nigeria Ramps Up Preparations For World Junior Squash Championship In Canada

The Nigeria Squash Federation has intensified its training programmes ahead of the 2026 World Junior Team Squash Championship, scheduled for July 20–31 in Ontario, Canada. Officials have voiced optimism about the country’s participation in the global event.

Federation president Wilson Egberipou confirmed that preparations are being stepped up as Nigeria aims to field a competitive squad in one of the sport’s most prestigious junior competitions, organised by the World Squash Federation and featuring top U-19 players from around the world.

Egberipou said Nigeria plans to present a balanced team of four male and four female players, with the selection process designed to ensure equal representation and competitive depth across both categories.

“We have intensified our preparations. It’s a very important championship,” he told Sports247.

He added that the tournament will offer Nigerian players valuable experience against elite international opposition, which is essential for their long-term development.

“These players need global experience. This is part of long-term development,” Egberipou said, noting that Nigeria’s participation is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s presence in international squash through consistent youth engagement and exposure to top tournaments.

The federation president expressed confidence that the championship would significantly accelerate the progress of the selected athletes as they compete on the world stage.

“It will help their progress greatly,” he said.

Stakeholders maintain that regular exposure to high-level competition remains crucial for nurturing future champions.

The World Junior Squash Championships are held annually by the World Squash Federation for players aged 19 and under, with Egypt continuing to dominate recent editions.

Egypt’s Mohamed Zakaria is the two-time defending men’s champion, while Amina Orfi has won four consecutive women’s titles since 2022.