BFN woos Taraba to host Under 19 tourney

The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) is in talks with the Taraba State Government for the hosting of the National under 19 Championship, which has been slated for April 10 to 14.

The competition, which will feature male and female players, is expected to have players from states across the country including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Secretary General of the BFN, James Eakyns, who confirmed this development to SportingLife.ng, stated that the federation is intensifying effort to ensure that the competition materializes.  He also assured that preparations were ongoing and that the federation would keep stakeholders posted as new development occurs.

“This competition is very important to the federation and that is why we are engaging Taraba State in discussions to ensure that the programme is held there. Though details are sketchy for now, we will, however, keep everyone posted on development. We are also intensifying efforts to ensure that the event holds,” Eakyns added.

While admitting that only few states have so far shown interest in the competition, he is upbeat that many others would indicate their interest as soon as the venue and dates were confirmed. “Badminton is played all over the country and we are sure that we will get great entries as soon as venue and dates are confirmed.”

According to the Secretary General, players who excel at the tournament will have the opportunity of taking part in African Youth Games and other competitions, which will help them improve the quality of their game as they also hope to become future stars that will do the county proud.

President of the federation, Frank Orbih, confirmed that the BFN is talking to Taraba State and expressed hope that deliberation would be fruitful.