Badminton Federation of Nigeria Sets March Date for Elections

Posted : 30 January 2026

The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, has disclosed that arrangements for the federation’s elections are nearing completion, with the process being conducted in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC) and expected to culminate in the inauguration of a new board in early March.

Orbih made this known during a BFN board meeting held at the Check Inn Hotel, Abuja, where he addressed issues relating to governance transition, athlete development, youth programmes, and funding challenges confronting the federation.

“For the elections, we are working in partnership with the National Sports Commission and under its guidance. The guidelines will be released by the Commission, and elections conducted strictly in line with them,” Orbih said.

He added, “Hopefully, the election will hold in early March, after which the new board will be inaugurated.”

Reflecting on his four-year tenure, Orbih described the period as largely successful, attributing the federation’s progress to collective effort rather than individual leadership.

“The journey of four years, I would say, has been very successful to a large extent. We achieved quite a lot. I would not say I was responsible for the success alone; it was teamwork. We had a very strong and supportive board that worked closely with me,” he stated.

He acknowledged that the tenure was not without challenges but stressed that commitment and effort made the difference.

“It was challenging, but what determines success is the level of effort we were able to put in,” Orbih said.

Declining to score his own administration, the BFN president said self-assessment would be inappropriate. “How would you make me the examiner for the examination I am sitting for?” he queried.

However, he pointed to widespread commendations as indicators of progress. “From the feedback and commendations, not only within Nigeria but across Africa and other continents, I believe we have done reasonably well. The world has become a global village, and people are recognizing our efforts,” he said.

While admitting that not all set targets were achieved, Orbih emphasized the importance of continuous improvement.

“It doesn’t mean we did everything. There were targets we met and others we did not. There is always room for improvement,” he noted.

He also referenced positive assessments from key stakeholders.

“When past Federation Presidents and officials of the Sports Commission say badminton is doing very well, it tells you that the efforts are being noticed. Everybody can’t be wrong,” Orbih added.

Highlighting major milestones, Orbih recalled Nigeria’s leadership role in continental badminton development.

“Nigeria hosted the BCA Road to LA 2028 programme, becoming the first and only country to have launched it so far,” he said.

He also spoke on the impact of para-badminton star Eniola Bolaji.

“Eniola Bolaji brought immense pride to Africa by becoming the first African to win a medal in para-badminton at the Paralympics, where she won a bronze medal. That achievement prompted the Badminton Confederation of Africa to encourage early preparations towards the possibility of a gold medal at LA 2028,” Orbih stated.

Providing an update, he said, “She is on course, having won the Egypt International gold medal earlier this month. Bolaji is heading to the World Para Badminton Championships next week and then to Spain in March. With sponsorship support from the National Sports Commission, GIG Logistics, and Yonex, we hope for even more backing. She is currently world number two, and we are hopeful she will become number one this year.”

Orbih also gave updates on other elite players. “Jeremiah Chigozie is also on the road to Los Angeles, and the National Sports Commission has placed him on a training grant as well,” he disclosed.

On Anu Opeyori, he said, “Anu is currently on scholarship in the United States. He has been settling in and adjusting to the system to enable him to travel and compete in more tournaments. We are hopeful that he will soon fully resume his playing career. We are also monitoring and developing other players.”

Speaking on funding and partnerships, Orbih expressed optimism.

“We have received encouraging support from the National Sports Commission, as well as private sector partners such as GIG Logistics, Yonex, Mutual Benefits Assurance, and Bond Global Energy. Government cannot do it alone. We are hopeful of attracting more private sector support so we can make even greater progress. We must continue to juggle, prioritize, and channel available funds to what matters most in our development plans,” he concluded.

Badminton Federation of Nigeria Sets March Date for Elections

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