Sports

I’m a big fan Of NPFL- Fanendo Adi

Published

6 years ago

May 27, 2020

…Optimistic of Eagles’ recall

Joel Ajayi

The striker of Super Eagles and Columbus Crew FC of Ohio in USA, Fanendo Adi, has revealed that he’s still a die-hard fan of Nigeria Professional Premier League (NPFL) adding that, Lobi Star FC Of Markurdi remains his favourite club.

Adi made this known on Wednesday in an interview with Rebranded NSM from his base in United States Of America.

According to him, I am a big football fan of Nigeria. I am a big football fan of NPFL. I follow the local league a little bit, especially Lobi Star, because I have watched them while playing many times when I was on holiday, and I equally watched them at the continental game.
I never got opportunity playing in Nigeria, because I left early, so to retire in Nigeria is something possible even, if it’s just a game, I will love to play in the Nigerian league, even if it’s one or two games, I want to see what it feels like, the environment, the travelling from one place to another, I don’t mind playing for a team, even if it’s just a week or a month, and retire, it’s part of the game.”

Speaking further, the Benue State-born Nigerian striker, Adi, equally said that he did not regret not making an appearance for the Super Eagles whenhe was invited, but optimistic to play for Nigeria again, if an opportunity comes his way.

“I am not disturbed about not being called upon, but I will continue to work hard, focus on the pitch while hoping to get a call up soon.

“I was with the squad in Egypt and it was painful not to being selected. I really can’t control that, but I will continue to give my best for my club and soon, hopefully, the Eagles handlers can spot me.

“I always wish the Super Eagles the best, it’s my country and I want them to do well”, he concluded.

In January 2011, Adi, then 20 years old, was invited for a trial by Ajax for the second time.

Adi was called up to Nigeria’s U23 team twice in 2011. He was also called up to the senior Nigeria squad to face Egypt in 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in March 2016 but did not play.

Also, Adi on Wednesday announced donation of 2,000 bags of Rice worthy millions of naira to the Benue State Government as part of his contribution to cushion the effect of the Pandemic Covid-19 to the people of the state.

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Sports

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

Published

19 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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