The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has taken a historic leap toward solidifying the country’s position on the global sports stage, gearing up for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Through a groundbreaking initiative, the federation recently concluded the Level 1 Badminton World Federation (BWF) Coaching Course, a transformative event that underscores its commitment to capacity building and sports excellence.
The one-week coaching course, held in Abuja, marked a pivotal moment for Nigerian badminton, being the first of its kind in seven years. Thirteen carefully selected young coaches from across the nation participated in the training, facilitated by the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA) and spearheaded by Dr. Ahmed Radah, the BCA Development Manager.
Dr. Radah lauded Nigeria’s immense talent and rich badminton heritage, expressing optimism about the country’s potential to dominate the international arena. “Nigeria has an abundance of talent and a deep badminton tradition. With the right investment, this nation can shine brightly on the global stage,” he noted.
BFN President Francis Orbih described the coaching course as a cornerstone of the federation’s broader vision to transform Nigeria into a powerhouse in both African and global badminton. According to Orbih, the initiative is part of a comprehensive approach to developing players, coaches, and officials in tandem.
“The growth of badminton must be holistic. This course is an investment in our future, and I am confident that the benefits will resonate for years to come,” Orbih affirmed.
The selection process for the course participants was rigorous, with the African governing body setting strict criteria. Orbih explained that the federation prioritized inclusivity and excellence, ensuring representation from across the country and welcoming former players transitioning into coaching roles. This strategic move aims to lay a solid foundation for the sport’s future in Nigeria.
Beyond its immediate impact, the coaching course aligns with BFN’s roadmap for hosting the 2025 Africa Badminton Championship. It also reflects the federation’s goal of creating a pool of highly skilled coaches capable of nurturing talent and driving the sport’s growth at all levels.
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Orbih emphasized that this is just the beginning, with plans already underway for a Level 2 coaching course next year. “These coaches must actively apply their knowledge to qualify for the next grade. It’s about maintaining momentum through consistent training and competitions,” he said.
Nigeria’s badminton potential is already evident, with stars like Eniola Bolaji and Anuoluwapo Opeyori making waves internationally. Orbih highlighted the importance of providing young talents with global exposure, revealing that two Nigerian players will undergo training in Malaysia in January under a program sponsored by the African badminton body.
“This journey has started, and it’s one that will redefine the future of badminton in Nigeria,” Orbih declared.
The BWF Coaching Course symbolizes more than just skill development—it represents a bold step toward placing Nigerian badminton on the world map. With strategic initiatives like these, the BFN is not only empowering coaches but also laying the groundwork for a legacy of excellence.
As the federation continues to champion progress, the dream of Nigerian dominance in badminton at LA 2028 inches closer to reality.
