MINNA – Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has donated the sum of ten Million Naira (₦10m) to the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), expressing preparedness of his administration to support any group that is working for overall interest of the state and its citizenry.

This is coming as the BFN President, Mr. Francis Orbih has pleaded with the state government not to allow the world standard badminton edifice at the Minna Sports Club, along David Mark road to waste due to underutilization or lack of maintenance.

Governor Bago announcing the donation at the finals/closing ceremony of the 1st edition of the Governor Bago inter-local government Badminton tournament said the donation is in line with the administration’s determination to encourage youths to engage in sporting activities in order to keep them away from all forms of crime and criminalities.

Gov Bago represented by the state Head of Service, Engr. Abubakar Salihu appreciated the state chapter of BFN for initiating the championship that will engage mostly youths into meaningful ventures, sports in particular.

Bago expressed the preparedness of his administration to host any national tournament of badminton especially as it is geared towards discovering hidden talents from across the 25 Local Government Areas.

Also in an interview, the BFN President, Barr. Francis Orbih who was impressed by the determination of the participants to excel in Badminton said there is hope and future for the sports not only in Niger state but at the national level.

Orbih who pleaded for the continued support of the state to sustain Badminton said Niger state had done a lot for Badminton at the national level as most of the key players that have kept the game going are from the state.

Also speaking, the state BFN chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Nma Kolo said the championship which the association plans to be an annual event is aimed at discovering new talents in rural areas and as well provide jobs for youths and future leaders through sports.

Nma Kolo who is the Special Adviser to Governor Bago on political matters said he was impressed with the turnout, including the veterans who took advantage of the event to encourage up coming Badminton champions.

DAILY INDEPENDENT correspondent reports that Suleja emerged overall winner in the championship which featured players from 18 out of the 25 local government area participating with; 4 gold, 3 silver and 4 bronze medals.

Bida and Bosso came second and third respectively with 1 gold and 4 bronze medals and 1. gold medal.