With just days to the commencement of 2025 All-African Senior Badminton Championship in Douala, Cameroon, the director-general of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment toward supporting Team Nigeria’s athletes to strive for excellence.
Speaking ahead of Team Nigeria’s departure, Olopade emphasised the growing importance of badminton in Nigeria’s sporting landscape, commending the leadership of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria for elevating the sport’s profile.
“For us at the NSC, and speaking on behalf of our chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, badminton has become a very important sport in the Nigerian sports ecosystem. President Orbih and his leadership team have created a buzz around badminton, and it is evident in what athletes like Aanu have achieved,” Olopade said.
The Nigerian badminton team, comprising ten players (five men and five women), will compete in Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles categories.
Among them is Anuoluwapo Opeyori, Nigeria’s number one player, who is determined to defend his singles title following his gold-winning performance last year.
During a visit to the team’s camp in Abuja on Wednesday to bid them farewell, Hon. Olopade assured the athletes of the Commission’s full support, urging them to give their best effort.
“I convey the chairman’s commitment to supporting all sports, and we recognise the growth of Nigerian badminton. It is our responsibility to encourage these athletes to continue excelling for the country. They are the defending champions, and my visit is to show our love, our support, and to ensure they are well looked after. The confidence is there—it’s all up to them to deliver,” Olopade stated.
Badminton Federation President Francis Orbih expressed confidence in the team, highlighting their readiness for the championships.
“I’m confident they will perform very well. We have a lot of potential, and the Director General’s visit will further boost their morale. We appreciate the support,” Orbih said.
Meanwhile, Opeyori is eyeing back-to-back victories, aiming to retain his African singles title and lead Nigeria to another strong performance at the championships.
At the previous edition in Cairo, Egypt, Team Nigeria secured one gold, two silver, and four bronze medals.
With the 2025 edition set to run from February 10–16, expectations are high for another remarkable showing from the country’s top shutters.
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