The badminton community came together in full force to honor the life and legacy of Gabriel Gbayan, a distinguished board member of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria and Chairman of the FCT Badminton Association. The emotional candlelight service, organized by the Mabilla Barrack Badminton Club (MBBC) with support from various stakeholders, was a heartfelt tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on the sport.
Speaking at the event, Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), commended the organizers for their thoughtful recognition of Gbayan’s immense contributions. “I am deeply moved by what MBBC has done here tonight,” Orbih remarked. “It speaks volumes about how much they valued him, bringing together all key stakeholders to celebrate his life. Gbayan was not just a leader in the badminton community, but a kind, gentle, and family-oriented man. His passing is a great loss, not only to Nigeria but to badminton across Africa. As stakeholders, we are committed to standing by his family during this challenging time.”
Adakole Jones, a close friend and confidant of the late Gbayan, struggled to capture the magnitude of the loss. “This is an incredibly painful blow to the badminton family,” Jones shared. “All we can do now is pray that God raises up another person like him, both for his family and for the sport he loved so much.”
Rtd. Real Admiral Yusuf Idowu, Chairman of MBBC, reflected on the significance of the evening, calling the candlelight service “a small but meaningful gesture to honor a man who gave so much to badminton in the FCT and beyond.” He continued, “Gbayan’s legacy and contributions to badminton will never be forgotten. He was a steadfast pillar of support for the growth of the sport and for all those involved.”
In an emotional moment, Mrs. Doom Gbayan, the widow of the late badminton stalwart, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the tributes paid to her husband. “It brings me comfort to hear so many kind words about Gabriel and to know that his efforts are being remembered,” she said. “Though the pain of losing him is overwhelming, knowing that his legacy lives on in the hearts of so many makes it a little easier to bear.”
The night of tributes, though somber, was also a celebration of Gabriel Gbayan’s life and his lasting influence on badminton in Nigeria and beyond. His unwavering dedication, kindness, and vision for the sport will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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