Nigeria shines at international badminton tourney in Zambia

The country’s contingent to this year’s International Badminton Championship in Zambia emerged over all winners after capturing two gold and two silver medals at the event, held in Lusaka between November 29 and December 2.

Nigeria won gold medal in women singles with Dorcas Ajoke Adesokan beating home girl, Ogar Siamupangila 21-17, 21-15. In the mixed doubles, Adesokan partnered Anu Opeyori to beat
Bahaedeen Ahmed and Domou Amro of Jordan 21-18, 23-21.

The country’s silver medal came in the men’s singles event, where Ade Resky Diwicahyo (Azerbaijan) defeated Opeyori 21-10, 23-21 and in the men’s doubles as the duo of Ade Resky Diwicahyo and Azmy Qowimuramadhon (Azerbaijan) displaced Godwin Olofua and Anuoluwapo Juwon Opeyori of Nigeria 21-19,16-21,21-17.

Azerbaijan finished second overall with two gold medals while host, Zambia were third with one gold, one silver and four bronze medals.

Speaking on the team’s feat, an excited President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, said the team’s success has again put the country on a pedestal as a leader in sports.

He added that the value of the win to the country and players couldn’t be underestimated as it will stimulate economic activities, create jobs and education as well as expose the players to new societies as they travel for tournaments.

According to Orbih, the BFN is committed to ensuring that the sport drives sustainable growth as its contribution to nation building.