By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

The curtain has fallen on Nigeria’s biggest badminton tournament, the All Stars Mega Championship, which ended in Abuja amidst a dazzling display of skill, excitement, and celebration. True to the vision of its organizers, the tournament captured the attention of players, coaches, administrators, and stakeholders alike, with Nigerians at home and abroad glued to their screens to witness every thrilling moment.

In a remarkable showcase of talent, Victor Ikechukwu and Obanisola Sofiat emerged victorious in the male and female singles categories, claiming the top cash prizes. Ikechukwu triumphed in a fiercely competitive men’s singles final, defeating Aliyu Shehu in straight sets, 21-19, 21-19, to pocket the tournament’s record-breaking prize of one million naira.

In the women’s singles final, Sofiat Obanisola stunned spectators by overcoming seasoned player Dorcas Adesokan 21-12,21-13. Despite Adesokan’s vast experience, Obanisola’s grit and determination secured her victory and the 700,000 naira prize, making her one of the stars of the tournament.

The championship, which kicked off on Wednesday, December 11th, saw participants stream into the venue, their hopes high. With 400 registered players participated in the competition which was intense, with unexpected upsets along the way. As some favorites bowed out, new stars emerged, proving the depth of talent in Nigerian badminton.

The doubles events  delivered memorable performances. In the women’s doubles, Sofiat Obanisola and Zainab Alabi combined forces to defeat Deborah Ukeh and Ruth Ebere in a grueling three-set battle, 20-22, 21-9, 21-10. Meanwhile, in the men’s doubles, Aliyu Shehu teamed up with Ibrahim Ahmed Dewo to redeem himself after his singles final loss, defeating Idowu Segun and Joseph Abel in a nail-biting three-set encounter, 21-11, 18-21, 21-17.

The veterans' categories added a touch of nostalgia and skillful artistry to the tournament. Joseph and Martha triumphed in the mixed veterans' doubles, while Abubakar and Kolo clinched the 50+ men’s doubles title. In the 28-49 veterans' doubles, Aminu and Anache showcased their mettle with a commanding 21-17, 21-15 victory over Uwaisu and Yahaya.

Speaking after the event, Salaudeen Abdulfatai, CEO of LMK Sport Kits Limited and Co-chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, expressed immense satisfaction with the tournament's success.

"I am thrilled with how everything turned out. The level of badminton was exceptional, and we fulfilled our promise of delivering the cash prizes to participants. I’m particularly grateful for the support from Nigerians in the diaspora, which has helped bring smiles to the faces of the players and elevated the profile of the sport in the country."

The Secretary General of the All Stars Badminton Club, Mohammed Auwal Bako, echoed these sentiments, marveling at the event's success despite initial doubts.

"I am so proud we pulled this off. It shows that with determination, we can achieve great things. We’re already looking forward to the next edition, aiming to make it even bigger and better. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us, both at home and abroad. I hope we’ve earned their continued trust and support for future events.

The All Stars Doubles event provided a fitting finale to the championship, with the pair of Gabriel and Idris defeating Emeka Alaezi and Shehu Njidda in an electrifying match.

The 2023 All Stars Mega Badminton Championship will undoubtedly be remembered as a landmark event, raising the bar for the sport in Nigeria and inspiring a new generation of players. With its successful conclusion, all eyes now turn to the next edition, promising even greater excitement and achievements.