The Nigerian team to the 2018 Zambia International Badminton Championship has emerged the champion after winning two gold and two silver medals at the event, which took place in Lusaka from November 29 to 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 defeat Bahaedeen Ahmed and Domou Amro of Jordan 21-18, 23-21.
Nigeria’s’ first silver medal came in the Men’s Singles where Ade Resky Diwicahyo (Azerbaijan) defeated Opeyori 21-10, 23-21. The second one came in the Men’s Doubles as the duo of Ade Resky Diwicahyo and Azmy Qowimuramadhon (Azerbaijan) also defeated Godwin Olofua and Anuoluwapo Juwon Opeyori of Nigeria 21-19,16-21,21-17.
Azerbaijan finished second overall with 2 gold medals while host, Zambia were third with 1 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze medals. In his reaction to the performance of the team, an excited President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Mr. Francis Orbih stated that the win has again put Nigeria on a pedestal as a leader in Sports. He further stated that the value to the Country and players cannot be underestimated : stimulates economic activities, job creation and education as players are exposed to new societies as they travel for tournaments.
According to him, Badminton Federation of Nigeria is committed to ensuring that badminton drives sustainable growth as its contribution to Nation building.
