FCT Badminton Leadership Seeks Collaboration with Indian Embassy in Nigeria

By: Gyang Dakwo

In a bid to strengthen the sport of badminton in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the board of the FCT Badminton Association recently paid a courtesy visit to the Indian Embassy in Nigeria. The delegation was warmly received by Mr. Pramod Kumar Agrawal, the Head of Chancery at the Indian Embassy.

During the meeting, Usman Bappa, Chairman of the FCT Badminton Association, expressed the association’s desire to collaborate with the Indian Embassy and the Indian community in Nigeria. He highlighted the active participation of the Indian community in badminton and emphasized the historical roots of the sport, which trace back to Ancient Greece, China, and India.

“We are here to express our desire to collaborate with you, knowing fully well that we have been observing your active participation in badminton, not just within the Indian Embassy, but also the Indian community in the FCT,” said Bappa.

The Chairman also took the opportunity to brief Mr. Agrawal on several key initiatives undertaken by the FCT Badminton Association. These include a competition for out-of-school and in-school indigent children, as well as the Area Councils Badminton Cup, which will culminate in a grand finale named the Nyesom Wike Tournament.

In addition, Bappa revealed plans for the Asian Badminton Cup, an event designed to involve various Asian communities. The competition aims to honor the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, and will prominently feature the Indian community.

Bappa further highlighted the association’s efforts to equip over 45 clubs in the FCT with necessary resources and provide periodic training for players and officials. However, he noted the challenges posed by the prevailing economic hardship, which has made it difficult for players to afford essential equipment. The association appealed for support in this regard.

In response, Mr. Pramod Kumar Agrawal commended the FCT Badminton Association for its initiatives and pledged to support the board in its efforts to promote the growth of badminton in the FCT. He particularly praised the inclusion of Indian and other Asian communities in the competitions, noting that such initiatives would enhance participation and development of the sport.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about the future of badminton in the FCT and the potential for fruitful collaboration between the FCT Badminton Association and the Indian Embassy.