The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) continues to push the boundaries of sports development in the country, with a clear vision toward achieving excellence and early preparation for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Central to this vision is the federation’s investment in capacity building, evident in the just-concluded one-week Level 1 Badminton World Federation (BWF) Coaching Course, which marked a significant milestone for Nigerian badminton.
Held in Abuja, the course brought together 13 young coaches from across Nigeria. The last time such a course was held in the country was in 2017, making this a historic and transformative step.
The training was facilitated by the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA) in partnership with the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) and conducted by Dr. Ahmed Radah, the BCA Development Manager.
Radah, impressed by the talent he witnessed, praised Nigeria’s potential.
“Nigeria is blessed with immense talent and a strong badminton tradition. I believe this country has what it takes to dominate on the global stage,” he remarked.
For BFN President Francis Orbih, this initiative is more than a coaching course—it is a cornerstone of a broader vision to make Nigeria a powerhouse in African and global badminton.
“The growth and development of badminton should be a total package—players, coaches, and officials must evolve together. This course is a vital investment, and I am confident we will reap its benefits in the years to come,” Orbih affirmed.
Orbih further explained the meticulous selection process for the participants: “The African body gave us specific criteria, and while many applied, only 13 met the standards. This ensured representation from across the country and the inclusion of promising retiring players transitioning into the coaching. It is a deliberate step toward building a solid foundation.”
The training also serves as a precursor to Nigeria’s hosting of the 2025 Africa Badminton Championship, a pivotal event in the roadmap to LA 2028. According to Orbih, the course aligns with the federation’s goal of creating a pool of highly skilled coaches who can effectively nurture talents at all levels.
The course isn’t just about skills—it is a bridge to future opportunities.
“These coaches must remain active and apply what they have learned to qualify for the next grade level 2, which we plan to host next year. It’s about sustaining momentum through consistent programs and competitions,” Orbih added.
Nigeria’s potential in badminton and para badminton is undeniable, with players like Eniola Bolaji and Anuoluwapo Opeyori already making waves internationally.
Orbih reiterated the importance of global exposure for young players: “Our talents need funding and international competitions to compete with the world’s best. The journey has started, with two of our players heading to Malaysia for training under the African body’s program in January.”
With the BWF Coaching Course setting the stage, the BFN’s commitment to empowering coaches and players demonstrates its readiness to put Nigerian badminton on the global map.
As Orbih eloquently put it: “This is just the beginning of a journey that will redefine the future of badminton in Nigeria.”
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