From Shola Baraye, llorin.
The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, has described Kwara State as the home of badminton in Nigeria, lauded Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s contribution to the development of spots
Speaking at the Sports HardTalk news platform organized by Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State Chapter, Orbih praised the state’s remarkable contributions to the growth of badminton, highlighting the wealth of talents and expertise emerging from the region.
“Kwara State has proven to be the backbone of badminton development in Nigeria,” From world-class coaches to talented athletes, the state continues to produce top-tier players and professionals who are setting the pace for the entire country. The state has truly earned its place as the home of badminton in Nigeria.”
Orbih’s statement came in the wake of several achievements by athletes and officials from Kwara. The state is home to Mallam Tunde Kazeem, the Technical Director of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, whose leadership has been instrumental in the growth of the sport in the country.
“Additionally, Kwara boasts of Kayode Mope, a World Badminton Federation (WBF) Level 1 Coach, whose training and expertise will shape the future of Nigerian badminton in the coming future”.
He further acknowledged Suleiman Tajudeen’s significant role in the development of badminton in Nigeria, noting that his leadership and coaching styles have greatly impacted the sport, particularly in Kwara State.
“Bolaji’s success on the world stage was a testament to the state’s dedication to excellence. A star player from Kwara, reinforced the state’s status after winning a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking a historic achievement for Nigeria in international badminton”.
“Kwara has shown time and time again that it is a hotbed for badminton talent,””The success of athletes like Eniola Bolaji and emerging stars such as Sofiat Obanishola, who recently won the women’s singles title, speaks volumes about the level of commitment to the sport in kwara”
“Kwara is not just the home of badminton in Nigeria, it is a beacon for the future of the sport, and I believe we are just scratching the surface of the incredible potential that lies within the state.”
