BY SUNDAY AKINTOYE/Accra, Ghana
Two players of Team Nigeria were the cynosure of all eyes at the ongoing All African Games in Accra, Ghana when they both played in the final of the men’s singles of badminton event of the continental championship on Sunday.
The two players are incidentally from Lagos State, the Centre of Excellence in Nigeria dorning colours of their fatherland at the Games.
Before the final, it has been known that gold and silver medals of that event would come to Nigeria, but it was the African champion, Anuoluwapo Opeyori who had the day beating his compatriot, Godwin Olofua 2-1 (23/21, 17/21, 15/21) in the final to defend his men’s singles title in the badminton event and won Nigeria’s first gold at the ongoing edition of the games in Ghana.
The Lagos State Sports Commission is already celebrating the players commending their rare feat to make not only the country proud at the Accra tournament but making Lagos proud as well.
“We are proud of you,” the Sports Commission screamed on its Official Facebook page late on Sunday. “The Lagos State Sports Commission congratulates Anuoluwapo Opeyori and Godwin Olofua, Lagos Badminton stars, who won gold and sliver medals for Nigeria respectively for Nigeria at the 13th All African Games in Accra, Ghana.”
To the Director General of the Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, the players’ exceptional performance adds to Nigeria growing medal haul at the African sports fiesta, adding: “I wholeheartedly congratulate Lagos badminton star Anuoluwapo Opeyori who has won the first gold medal for Nigeria at the All African Games currently underway in Accra, Ghana. Opeyori wasn’t the only Lagosian to shine in the badminton tournament. I also specially congratulate Godwin Olofua, another talented Lagos athlete, who delivered a stellar performance, securing the silver medal in badminton.
“The duo’s exceptional performance adds to Nigeria’s growing medal count and showcases the depth of talent drawn from Lagos to represent Nigeria at the All African Games. Their dedication, dexterity, and relentless pursuit of excellence have culminated in these well-deserved gold and silver medals, respectively.
“This win not only brings immense honour to Lagos State, but to all of Nigeria. It is an attestation to the incredible potential of our athletes and the commitment of the Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensuring an enabling environment and sports ecosystem for nurturing champions.
“With the Games still ongoing, anticipation for further success by Nigerian athletes is high. All eyes are now on Team Lagos as they lead the charge, and I am certain our Lagos athletes will win more gold medals for Nigeria at the 13th All African Games.”
Lagos Athletes competing at the All African Games in Accra, Ghana
