By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

The stage is set for what promises to be a groundbreaking event in Nigerian badminton history, as the All Stars Mega Badminton Championship kicks off on December 11, 2024, in Abuja. With over ₦9 million in cash prizes, this tournament is poised to redefine the game, offering the largest payday ever seen in Nigerian badminton.

The men’s singles champion will walk away with a star prize of ₦1 million, while the women’s singles winner will pocket ₦700,000. Winners in the men’s and women’s doubles categories will each receive ₦500,000, with numerous consolation cash prizes  and gifts for other categories, including All Stars doubles, 50+ men veterans, U-49 men’s doubles, and mixed veterans.

Salaudeen Abdulfatai, C E O LMK Sport Kits Limited and Co-chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for All Stars Mega Badminton Championship, expressed his excitement ahead of the championship. "We are working closely with badminton stakeholders in Nigeria and the diaspora to elevate the sport. This championship isn’t just a competition; it’s a statement about the potential of badminton in Nigeria," he said.

Fatai emphasized the collaborative effort behind the event, noting contributions from notable former players and enthusiasts such as Mr Peter Duku,Mr Orobosa Okuonghae,Mrs Olabisi Fajinmi (Nee Tiamiyu),Mr Abimbola Odejoke and Mr Olaoluwa Ebenezer Fagbemi. "It’s not easy to entrust funds and resources, but these individuals have placed their faith in us. We are determined not to disappoint, which is why every effort is being made to ensure this is the best-organized and most rewarding tournament in our history."

The response from athletes has been overwhelming. "We’ve already registered over 100 players for the men’s singles alone, a record-breaking figure. The women’s singles, doubles, and veterans' categories have also seen unprecedented participation,besides the last 16 and quarter finalists would also go home with cash prizes.This will undoubtedly be the most highly attended badminton tournament ever held in Nigeria," Fatai added.

As excitement builds, the All Stars Mega Badminton Championship is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of dedication, collaboration, and the future of badminton in Nigeria.