African badminton hosts Road to LA 2028 Olympics

African badminton officials were live in Abuja at the weekend when the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA) kicked off its ambitious ‘Road to LA 2028’ programme, which is aimed at ensuring that the continent won medals at the 2028 Olympic Games.

BCA said the programme, which emphasises early preparation, resource mobilisation, and talent development, will change the continent’s story at the Games.

The launch event at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders from across the continent, with Nigeria leading the charge as host.

Explaining the push for a united commitment to rewriting Africa’s badminton story on the global stage, Zambia’s Kingston Mulenga, who is BCA’s deputy president, said: “In Africa, we rarely plan four years ahead for the Olympics due to challenges like funding and resources.”

Nigeria’s leadership in hosting and championing this programme is groundbreaking. This initiative offers a roadmap for other African nations to emulate, ensuring that our athletes are prepared to compete at the highest level.”

Also speaking at the event, president of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, who is a BCA Council member, reflected on the inspiration behind the programme.

He said: “Eniola Bolaji’s bronze medal at Paris 2024 was a watershed moment for African badminton. It showed that with the right preparation and support, Africa can succeed on the global stage. This programme is about sustaining and surpassing that success. Starting early and pooling resources are critical to achieving our goals.

“Transforming African badminton requires a collective effort. With support from the government, corporate sponsors, and individuals, I believe we can make Africa a global badminton powerhouse. Success attracts more success, and now is the time to invest in our athletes and their future.”

Apart from top African badminton bosses, the cream of Nigeria’s sports leaders, including NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko and NOC President, Habu Gumel, as well as African champion, Anuoluwapo Opeyori, were also present at the event.