By Martin Odiete………..The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Matsunaga Kazuyoshi has expressed great desire to assist the Nigeria Badminton players participate and perform well at this year’s Tokyo Olympic Games.
The Ambassador stated this Tuesday when he presented 80 rackets to the Nigeria Badminton Federation in an occasion that took place at the Badminton Hall, Package B of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Matsunaga said he holds a special feelings for Nigeria hence his desire to see Nigeria particularly Badminton perform well at the Olympics.
“When i was notified that Nigeria would be my new posting, it awakened a great desire to see the giant of Africa with my own eye and today i am here. So, this event being my first public activity, will be unforgettable and a good memory in my life.
“As you are aware, Japan is hosting the Olympic and Paralympics Games and now only one month to go. I am really glad that Nigeria, the biggest country in Africa is going to participate. Of course, most exciting is the participation of Nigeria’s Badminton players, in the Men’s double and women’s singles.
“Our desire is to support your team going to the Olympics Games in Japan, ensuring an effective and successful participation in all the Games.
“I am also looking forward to seeing Ms Eniola Bolaji at the World Para Badminton Championship in Japan this October. She has made history as the first Nigerian and African to win gold medal at the 2021 Spanish Para Badminton International Championship.
“The Africa para Badminton is at a turning point in its history. I really admire the efforts and support by the Badminton Federation of Nigeria to achieve this historic moment,” the Ambassador said.
On his part, the Chairman, Badminton Caretaker Committee, Francis Obih said, “Today is a very special day to the Badminton family in Nigeria. We want to say a big thank you to the Ambassador for he generous donation. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that this happen. For the first time in 40 tears, Nigeria qualify for the Olympics in the Men’s and Women’s Singles in the Badminton. This happens at a time Japan is rated number one country in Badminton, the same country is hosting the Olympic this year. Nigeria also played at the Badminton World Championship in the Men’s and Women’s Singles categories. We’re planning to become the second the best country in the game after Japan. He concluded.
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