ILORIN – The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, has emphatically declared that Kwara State stands as the unequivocal epicenter of badminton in Nigeria.
Addressing the Sports HardTalk event organized by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State Chapter, recently, Orbih lauded the state’s exceptional contributions to the advancement of badminton, underscoring the abundance of talent and expertise emanating from the region.
“Kwara State has indisputably emerged as the cornerstone of badminton development in Nigeria,” Orbih articulated.
“From elite coaches to gifted athletes, the state consistently churns out top-tier players and professionals who are setting the benchmark for the entire nation. Kwara has undeniably earned its prestigious status as the nucleus of badminton in Nigeria,” he added.
Orbih’s proclamation came on the heels of numerous accomplishments by athletes and officials hailing from Kwara. The state is notably home to Mallam Tunde Kazeem, the Technical Director of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, whose stewardship has been pivotal in fostering the sport’s growth in the country.
“Furthermore, Kwara boasts the esteemed presence of Kayode Mope, a World Badminton Federation (WBF) Level 1 Coach, whose tutelage and expertise are poised to mold the future trajectory of Nigerian badminton,” said Orbih.
Orbih underscored Suleiman Tajudeen’s pivotal role in the evolution of badminton in Nigeria, highlighting that his leadership and coaching acumen have significantly influenced the sport, particularly within Kwara State.
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“Another prominent figure in Kwara’s badminton legacy is Suleiman Tajudeen, the former head coach of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria.”
Orbih accentuated that Bolaji’s global triumph was a testament to the state’s commitment to excellence.
“Eniola Bolaji, a standout player from Kwara, further solidified the state’s reputation by clinching a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking a historic milestone for Nigeria in international badminton.”
“Kwara has consistently demonstrated its prowess as a breeding ground for badminton talent,”Orbih continued.
“The triumphs of athletes like Eniola Bolaji and rising stars such as Sofiat Obanishola, who recently secured the women’s singles title, eloquently speak to the unwavering dedication to the sport in this region.”
Orbih’s commendation of Kwara comes as no surprise, given the substantial advancements the state has made in cultivating badminton infrastructure and nurturing talent across all levels.
“Kwara not only serves as the epicenter of badminton in Nigeria, but also shines as a guiding light for the sport’s future, and I am confident that we have only begun to scratch the surface of the remarkable potential that resides within the state,” he added.
