Abuja: Former Nigerian squash professionals in the diaspora have committed to bolstering grassroots development for the sport, advocating for increased investment, broader competitions, and enhanced international opportunities for young players. This pledge was made during the closing ceremony of the seventh edition of the Squash in Diaspora Under-11, Under-13, and Under-17 Boys and Girls Junior Championship in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the tournament marked its first appearance in Abuja after six years in Lagos, drawing over 100 young participants from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Kaduna States, among other regions in Northern Nigeria. Haniel Hadison, the Vice-President of the Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF) and a sponsor of the tournament, highlighted the vital contributions of former professionals abroad in promoting squash development in Nigeria. He emphasized the significance of these efforts in nurturing future national and international athletes.
Jonah Attah, Te
chnical Director of the NSF and Vice-Chairman of the African Squash Federation, praised the strong turnout from Northern Nigeria, with the FCT producing 33 junior players, Plateau 13, and Kaduna 11. Attah noted the increase in participation for the Under-11 category, demonstrating the success of the NSF’s development roadmap.
Sonia DeRosesa, a visiting junior squash player, expressed optimism about the future of squash in Nigeria, noting the dedication and hard work of Nigerian players. Segun Maku, a former North American and Nigerian champion, also advocated for increased investment in grassroots development, emphasizing the responsibility of former professionals to contribute to the sport’s growth.
Iniobong Jacob called for more resources, coaching, and strategic partnerships to support young players, noting significant improvements among participants. Adekunle Adebiyi, Secretary of Nigerian Squash Players in the Diaspora, described the tournament’s successful completion as fulfilling, highlighting the or
ganizers’ intention to expand future editions to other regions, including the South-East and Kano.
The event, held at the Squash Courts of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, concluded on Saturday, underscoring the ongoing commitment to nurturing young squash talent in Nigeria.