The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, has firmly stated that Kwara State is the undisputed home of badminton in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Sports HardTalk organized by Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State Chapter, Orbih praised the state’s remarkable contributions to the growth of badminton, highlighting the wealth of talent and expertise emerging from the region.
“Kwara State has proven to be the backbone of badminton development in Nigeria,” Orbih said.
“From world-class coaches to talented athletes, the state continues to produce top-tier players and professionals who are setting the pace for the entire country. The state has truly earned its place as the home of badminton in Nigeria.”
Orbih’s statement came in the wake of several achievements by athletes and officials from Kwara. The state is home to Mallam Tunde Kazeem, the Technical Director of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, whose leadership has been instrumental in the growth of the sport in the country.
“Additionally, Kwara boasts of Kayode Mope, a World Badminton Federation (WBF) Level 1 Coach, whose training and expertise will shape the future of Nigerian badminton in the coming future”.
Orbih highlighted Suleiman Tajudeen’s significant role in the development of badminton in Nigeria, noting that his leadership and coaching have greatly impacted the sport, particularly in Kwara State.
“Another key figure in Kwara’s badminton legacy is Suleiman Tajudeen, the former head coach of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria.
Orbih emphasized that Bolaji’s success on the world stage was a testament to the state’s dedication to excellence.
“Eniola Bolaji, a star player from Kwara, further reinforced the state’s status after winning a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking a historic achievement for Nigeria in international badminton”.
“Kwara has shown time and time again that it is a hotbed for badminton talent,” Orbih continued.
“The success of athletes like Eniola Bolaji and emerging stars such as Sofiat Obanishola, who recently won the women’s singles title, speaks volumes about the level of commitment to the sport here.”
Orbih’s praise for Kwara comes as no surprise, considering the significant strides the state has made in developing badminton infrastructure and nurturing talent at all levels.
“Kwara is not just the home of badminton in Nigeria, it is a beacon for the future of the sport, and I believe we are just scratching the surface of the incredible potential that lies within the state.”
