BCA launches ‘Road to LA 2028’ to boost African Olympic dreams

By Olaolu Joseph

The Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA) has launched the groundbreaking “Road to LA 2028” program in Abuja, Nigeria.

The initiative aims to secure Olympic and Paralympic success for African athletes at the 2028 Los Angeles Games through early preparation, resource mobilization, and talent development.

The launch event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel on Sunday, December 1, 2024, brought together key stakeholders from across the continent, with Nigeria taking the lead as host. The program highlights a united commitment to rewriting Africa’s badminton narrative on the global stage.

Kingston Mulenga, Deputy President of the BCA, highlighted the significance of the initiative:
“In Africa, we rarely plan four years ahead for the Olympics due to challenges like funding and resources. Nigeria’s leadership in hosting and championing this program is groundbreaking. This initiative offers a roadmap for other African nations to emulate, ensuring that our athletes are prepared to compete at the highest level.”

Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) and a BCA Council member, reflected on the inspiration behind the program:
“Eniola Bolaji’s bronze medal at Paris 2024 was a watershed moment for African badminton. It showed that with the right preparation and support, Africa can succeed on the global stage. This program is about sustaining and surpassing that success. Starting early and pooling resources are critical to achieving our goals.”

Orbih also emphasized the importance of partnerships:
“Transforming African badminton requires a collective effort. With support from the government, corporate sponsors, and individuals, I believe we can make Africa a global badminton powerhouse. Success attracts more success, and now is the time to invest in our athletes and their future.”

Engr. Habu Gumel, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, stressed the value of early preparations:
“To win at the Olympics, you need years of consistent training, planning, and investment. The BCA’s initiative sets a powerful example for other sports federations. The Nigeria Olympic Committee will do everything possible to support this program with scholarships and resources to help our athletes excel.”

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, reaffirmed the government’s support:
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision to elevate Nigerian and African sports. The achievements in Paris 2024 proved that we have the talent; now, we must provide the infrastructure and funding to turn potential into podium finishes. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for success.”

Eniola Bolaji, Africa’s first Paralympic medalist in badminton, expressed her determination to achieve even greater success:
“Winning bronze in Paris was a proud moment, but it also motivated me to aim higher. This program gives us the tools we need to succeed. With the right training, resources, and support, I’m confident I can bring home gold in Los Angeles.”

Team Nigeria captain and two-time Olympian Anuoluwapo Opeyori spoke about the program’s significance:
“This initiative is a game-changer. It’s not just about medals; it’s about inspiring athletes to perform at their best. With consistent training, mentorship, and global exposure, we can raise the bar for African badminton.”

Spanish coach Dina Abouzeid Sarinena, an international coach for the BCA and BFN, reiterated the importance of preparation:
“We prepared for one year before Paris 2024, but now we have four years. That gives us the opportunity to fine-tune techniques, improve tactics, and create an ideal environment for success. This program is a golden opportunity for African athletes to compete at par with their global counterparts.”

The “Road to LA 2028” initiative is set to revolutionize African badminton by nurturing talent, empowering coaches, and establishing a sustainable support system for athletes. It calls on governments, private sponsors, and sports enthusiasts to join hands in propelling Africa to Olympic glory.

With Nigeria leading the charge, the continent is poised for a badminton renaissance, ensuring that African athletes become strong contenders on the global stage.