NSC pledges support as Team Nigeria heads to 2025 All-African Senior Badminton Championship

By Olaolu Joseph

With just days to go before the 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 to supporting Nigerian sports federations, including badminton, in their pursuit of excellence.

Speaking ahead of Team Nigeria’s departure, Olopade emphasized the growing significance of badminton in Nigeria’s sporting landscape and commended the leadership of Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, for elevating the sport’s profile.

“For us at the NSC, and on behalf of our chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, badminton has become a key sport in the Nigerian sports ecosystem. President Orbih and his team have generated excitement around badminton, and we can see the impact in the achievements of athletes like Aanu,” Olopade said.

The Nigerian badminton team, comprising 10 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 top-ranked player, who is determined to defend his singles title after last year’s gold-winning performance.

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 and encouraged them to give their best.

“I convey the chairman’s commitment to supporting all sports, and we recognize the remarkable 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, support, and ensure they have everything they need. The confidence is there—it’s now up to them to deliver,” Olopade stated.

Badminton Federation President Francis Orbih expressed confidence in the team, emphasizing their readiness for the championship.

“I’m confident they will perform very well. We have immense potential, and the Director General’s visit will further boost their morale. We appreciate the support,” Orbih said.

Meanwhile, Opeyori is aiming for back-to-back victories, seeking 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 take place from February 10–16, expectations are high for another outstanding performance from Nigeria’s top shuttlers.

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