Sports

Onusiriuka Emerges Nigeria’s Best All-Round Gymnast, Inspires Next Generation

Published

3 months ago

February 24, 2026

Joel Ajayi

Fifteen-year-old Stephanie Onusiriuka has emerged as Nigeria’s Best All-Round Gymnast, a feat that not only cements her place among the country’s elite young athletes but also inspires a new generation to dream big.

Stephanie claimed the prestigious title at the National Youth Games Asaba 2025 after delivering outstanding performances to secure multiple gold medals.

Her dominance at the competition reaffirmed her growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s brightest sporting prospects.
A multiple gold medalist at the Youth Games, National Sports Festival, and African Championships in Pretoria, South Africa, Stephanie’s journey began at just two years old. Years of discipline, sacrifice, and relentless training have shaped her into a formidable competitor who continues to raise Nigeria’s flag high at every opportunity.

Her emergence as the nation’s top all-round gymnast goes beyond medals.
Determined to inspire others, she recently embarked on a Gymnastics School Tour in Abia State, visiting Ibeku High School and Icon Builders International School.

The initiative was designed to encourage grassroots participation in sports and identify budding talents. The visits sparked excitement among students, with several young prospects discovered and now poised for development.

Stephanie’s achievements have drawn commendation from Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, who received her in recognition of her excellence.

At the same event, he also honoured the Nigeria women’s national basketball team for their international accomplishments, underscoring the importance of celebrating Nigerian athletes who continue to make the nation proud.

Training both in London and Nigeria, Stephanie represents a new generation of athletes blending global exposure with strong national identity. Her story sends a clear message to young Nigerians age is no barrier to greatness, and with focus, courage, and consistency, dreams can become reality.
As she continues her remarkable journey, Stephanie Onusiriuka is not just winning titles; she is lighting the path for the next generation of champions.

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Sports

Badminton Federation of Nigeria Targets Grassroots Growth, Coaches’ Capacity Building

Published

14 hours ago

May 14, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, says the federation has launched an ambitious reform programme anchored on structured planning, grassroots development, and long-term athlete progression across all levels of the sport.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja, after two-day retreat at ANOCA building where board members, technical experts, and stakeholders gathered under the theme: Repositioning Badminton for Sustainable Growth’ gathered to chart a way forward for the Game.

Orbih said the sessions were designed to align stakeholders on a unified four-year strategic roadmap focused on improving governance, strengthening performance systems, and expanding participation nationwide.

He noted that key priorities discussed include technical development, coaching education, athlete welfare, and a more coordinated grassroots structure through school-based programmes.

According to him, the federation has approved the creation of 11 committees to drive implementation of its reforms, with emphasis on accountability, coordination, and measurable performance outcomes.

“We wanted a collective approach where decisions are jointly owned and implemented, with clear and measurable results.

‘’A major pillar of the plan is grassroots badminton development, particularly in schools.’’

He explained that while outreach programmes have existed, the federation is now shifting toward a more structured and data-driven approach with wider national coverage.

Orbih disclosed that the federation currently reaches an average of 25 to 30 schools per zonal outreach programme, but plans are underway to expand coverage across more states and increase consistency of engagement.

He also highlighted gaps in coaching capacity, noting that the number of certified coaches in Nigeria remains relatively low compared to other countries. The federation, he said, will intensify coaching education and certification programmes to close the gap and improve technical standards.

“We have over 100 coaches in Nigeria, but many are not actively engaged in continuous training. We want to strengthen that system and raise the standard,” he added.

The BFN president further confirmed the introduction of structured age-grade development pathways, covering under-12, under-15, under-19, and other youth categories to ensure seamless progression from grassroots to elite level.

President added that, federation plans to organise more age-group tournaments to sustain player development and improve competitive exposure.

Speaking also, the Technical Director of the federation, Tunde Kashim, also emphasised that the technical department remains central to the reform agenda, describing it as the “engine room” of badminton development in the country.

He said the department is reviewing player databases, coaching structures, and competition pathways to ensure a stronger performance system.

Kashim added that efforts will be made to upgrade coaching levels across the country, including progression through certification tiers, while also addressing the declining number of active coaches in the system.

He further revealed plans to expand youth competitions across multiple age categories, including under-12, under-15, under-16, and under-19 levels, aimed at strengthening the talent pipeline from schools to elite competition.

According to him, the federation is also working with state stakeholders to improve facilities and increase participation, while preparing for upcoming national and continental engagements.

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