Lagos to host 8th International Badminton Classics with players from 31 countries

Lagos is set to take center stage in world badminton as preparations reach their peak for the 8th Lagos International Badminton Classics, scheduled to hold from August 27 to 30, 2025, at the Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

The prestigious four-day championship, organised by the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) in collaboration with the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and supported by the Lagos State Sports Commission, promises to be a showcase of world-class talent.

This year’s edition will feature over 200 players from 31 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Badminton powerhouses such as India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Indonesia will compete alongside top athletes from the United States, Canada, France, Egypt, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, underlining the tournament’s global appeal.

Speaking on the championship, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Mr. Lekan Fatodu, expressed delight at Lagos’ readiness to host athletes from around the world. He reaffirmed the State Government’s vision of making Lagos the epicenter of multi-sports in Africa.

“Lagos is fully prepared to host this landmark event, with world-class facilities and robust security in place. Our commitment goes beyond competition; it is about deepening sports development as a driver of youth empowerment, productivity, and economic growth, while reinforcing Lagos as Africa’s hub for multi-sports,” Fatodu said.

The Director General added that Lagos’ hosting of the championship aligns with its broader strategy of attracting global sporting events and promoting youth participation in sports.

Already in 2025, Lagos, through the support of the Lagos State Sports Commission, has provided an enabling environment for international tournaments across various disciplines. These include the Festival of Table Tennis, the African Senior Fencing Championship, and the Zen Archery Lagos International Open, among others.

With its growing reputation as a reliable host of major competitions, Lagos continues to position itself as a leading destination for sports tourism and development on the African continent.