Alhaji Adamu Lawan Zaufanjinba has emerged as the National Vice President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) following a keenly contested election held in Abuja.
The vibrant and energetic politician from Borno State made history as the first indigene of the state to occupy the office of Vice President of the federation.
The election, widely described by stakeholders as one of the most transparent and credible in the history of the federation, took place on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Package “B” of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
The exercise was presided over by the Executive Secretary of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, and was attended by top dignitaries in the Nigerian sports sector, including representatives of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, state delegates, and other key stakeholders.
At the end of the closely fought contest, new executives were elected to steer the affairs of the federation for the next four years. Barrister Francis Nwobi emerged as the new National President of the federation and will work alongside Zaufanjinba in piloting the activities of the sport across the country.
In his acceptance remarks, Zaufanjinba commended the electoral committee for conducting what he described as a free, fair, and credible election. He also expressed gratitude to state associations, delegates, and executives for the confidence reposed in him.
“I thank all stakeholders for this opportunity to serve. I promise to carry everyone along in the spirit of sportsmanship and to work tirelessly for the growth and development of badminton in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
Zaufanjinba’s emergence adds to his growing profile in sports administration. In 2025, he spearheaded the committee for the Governor Zulum Badminton Championship in Borno State under the leadership of the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Usman Umar Kadafur.
The tournament, which featured participants across various age categories, was widely praised for its organization and competitive standards, with Team Kadafur Badminton Club emerging overall winner.
With the new leadership now in place, stakeholders have expressed optimism that the Badminton Federation of Nigeria will witness renewed energy and strategic direction aimed at grassroots development, improved athlete performance, and greater international participation.
