The Badminton Federation of Nigeria has elected Capt. Ocholi Abel Edicha as its new Players’ Representative, following a closely fought board election held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Edicha secured 18 votes out of 33 cast, edging past Alaya Suleiman, who polled 15 votes in what observers described as a transparent and orderly process. The election, conducted in Abuja, reinforces the federation’s stated commitment to internal democracy and athlete representation within Nigerian badminton.
A retired Nigerian badminton star and former member of the Nigerian Army, Edicha brings decades of competitive and administrative experience to the board. He was a dominant force in Nigerian badminton throughout the 2000s, excelling in both men’s singles and doubles and earning respect for his discipline and consistency on the national and continental stage.
One of the defining moments of his career came at the All Africa Games, where he claimed gold in the men’s singles event, cementing his place among Nigeria’s badminton elite. He also contributed to Nigeria’s medal haul in the mixed team event in 2007. His continental record includes podium finishes at the African Championships in Casablanca in 2002 and Kampala in 2010, particularly in men’s doubles and mixed team events.
Edicha represented Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games in 2002 and 2010, competing against some of the world’s top players. On the domestic circuit, he featured prominently at national trials and championships, competing alongside established names in Nigerian badminton.
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Recruited into the Nigerian Army in 1996, Edicha served for 23 years while balancing military duties with a demanding sporting career. He retired from international badminton after the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi but remained actively involved in the development of the sport. In 2019, he previously served as a BFN Players’ Representative, reflecting his long-standing commitment to athlete advocacy.
Speaking after being declared winner by election officer Olumide Bamiduro, Edicha thanked fellow players for their trust and pledged to prioritize welfare and fairness.
He said he would work to protect the interests of Nigerian badminton players and strengthen communication between athletes and the federation. He also promised to promote transparency and inclusiveness in decision making.
His opponent, Alaya Suleiman, described the election as credible and peaceful, congratulating Edicha and expressing satisfaction with the process. Suleiman indicated he may contest again after the four year tenure.
In a parallel election, Kainde Jumo emerged as Technical Representative with 24 votes, further shaping the composition of the new board.
Stakeholders believe Edicha’s experience as a decorated athlete and disciplined officer positions him to strengthen players’ representation and support the growth of badminton in Nigeria at both grassroots and elite levels.
