The 9th Lagos International Badminton Classics got underway on Wednesday at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Institute for Sports, National Stadium, Lagos State, with 166 players from 27 countries competing.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, had declared Nigeria fully prepared to host the tournament, which will run until August 29, describing the level of interest from participating countries as encouraging.
“We are fully prepared to host the 9th Lagos International Badminton Classics. The response from participating countries has been very encouraging, and we are expecting 166 players from 27 countries to compete in this year’s tournament,” Orbih said.
He disclosed that the tournament carries a total prize purse of US$20,000, underscoring its significance on the international badminton calendar.
“The US$20,000 prize money demonstrates the level of importance attached to this competition. We want the players to have every motivation to give their best and put on a great performance,” he said.
Orbih also commended the Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Phillip Shuaibu, and his management team for making the venue available.
“Their support has been crucial to our preparations, and we are grateful for their cooperation,” he said.
He said the federation remained committed to delivering a well-organised championship that would further enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a destination for major international badminton events.