By Dorcas Francis Koji
The 9th Lagos International Badminton Classics has officially commenced in Lagos, attracting 166 players from 27 countries for what promises to be a fiercely contested international championship.
The tournament began on Wednesday at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Institute for Sports, National Stadium, Lagos, and will run until August 29.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, said the country was fully prepared to host the latest edition of the competition, while expressing satisfaction with the strong international response.
Orbih noted that the participation of athletes from 27 countries demonstrates the growing profile of the Lagos Classics and its importance on the international badminton calendar.
“We are fully prepared to host the 9th Lagos International Badminton Classics,” Orbih said.
“The response from participating countries has been very encouraging, and we are expecting 166 players from 27 countries to compete in this year’s tournament.”
The competition also comes with a total prize purse of US$20,000, adding further incentive for the participating players to produce their best performances throughout the championship.
According to Orbih, the prize money reflects the significance attached to the tournament and is expected to motivate the athletes competing for honours in Lagos.
“The US$20,000 prize money demonstrates the level of importance attached to this competition.
“We want the players to have every motivation to give their best and put on a great performance,” he added.
Beyond the competition itself, the Lagos International Badminton Classics provides Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen its reputation as a host of major international sporting events.
Orbih also praised the Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Phillip Shuaibu, and his management team for supporting the championship by making the venue available.
“Their support has been crucial to our preparations, and we are grateful for their cooperation,” he said.
The Badminton Federation of Nigeria says it remains committed to delivering a well-organised championship capable of meeting international standards while providing Nigerian players with valuable exposure against competitors from around the world.
With 166 athletes representing 27 nations, attention will now turn to the courts as players battle for honours, prize money and valuable experience at the 9th Lagos International Badminton Classics.
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