In a historic step towards elevating the game of badminton in Africa, the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA) has launched the groundbreaking ‘Road to LA 2028’ programme in Abuja, Nigeria.
The initiative which aims at securing Olympics and Paralympics success for African athletes at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, emphasizes on early preparation, resource mobilization, and talent development.
The launch event, held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders from across the continent, with Nigeria leading the charge as host.
The programme reflects a united commitment to rewriting Africa’s badminton story on the global stage and Kingston Mulenga (Zambia), Deputy President of the BCA, explained the unique nature of the initiative:
“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.”
Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) and a BCA Council member, reflected on the inspiration behind the programme thus: “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 program is about sustaining and surpassing that success. Starting early and pooling resources are critical to achieving our goals.”
Orbih also emphasised the importance of partnerships: “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.”
President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Gumel, stressed the value of starting preparations well ahead of the Olympics.
“To win at the Olympics, you need years of consistent training, planning, and investment. The BCA’s initiative sets a powerful example for other sports federations. The Nigeria Olympic Committee will do everything possible to support this program with scholarships and resources to help our athletes excel,” he said.
Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, reaffirmed the government’s support: “This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision to elevate Nigerian and African sports. The achievements in Paris 2024 proved that we have the talent; now, we must provide the infrastructure and funding to turn potential into podium finishes. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for success.”
Eniola Bolaji, Africa’s first Paralympic medalist in badminton, expressed her determination to achieve even greater success.
“Winning bronze in Paris was a proud moment, but it also motivated me to aim higher. This program gives us the tools we need to succeed. With the right training, resources, and support, I’m confident I can bring home gold in Los Angeles,” she assured.
Team Nigeria captain and two-time Olympian Anuoluwapo Opeyori, who also spoke about the programme’s significance, described as a game changer
“This initiative is a game-changer. It’s not just about medals; it’s about inspiring athletes to perform at their best. With consistent training, mentorship, and global exposure, we can raise the bar for African badminton.”
Spanish Dina Abouzeid Sarinena, an international coach for BCA and BFN, reiterated the importance of preparation, saying that the years period offers a huge opportunity for the continent to create an ideal enviroment for success.
“We prepared for one year before Paris 2024, but now we have four years. That gives us the opportunity to fine-tune techniques, improve tactics, and create an ideal environment for success. This programme is a golden opportunity for African athletes to compete at par with their global counterparts.”
The “Road to LA 2028” initiative promises to revolutionize African badminton by nurturing talent, empowering coaches, and creating a sustainable support system for athletes. It calls on governments, private sponsors, and sports enthusiasts to join hands in propelling Africa to Olympic glory.
With Nigeria setting the pace, the continent is poised for a badminton renaissance, ensuring that African athletes are not just participants but strong contenders on the global stage.
