By Aderonke Ojo
Abuja is set to host one of its biggest squash events in recent years as the inaugural Haniel Hadison and Friends PSA Satellite Tournament gets underway today at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
The organisers confirmed that the Professional Squash Association (PSA)-sanctioned competition will feature top local talents competing for substantial prize money, with winners in the men’s and ladies categories set to take home ₦500,000 and ₦400,000 respectively.
Speaking at a pre-tournament briefing, Technical Director of the Nigeria Squash Federation, Jonah Attah, described the event as a strategic intervention aimed at addressing the lack of competitive opportunities for Nigerian players.
He noted that the tournament—spearheaded by former squash star Haniel Hadison—reflects a deep understanding of the challenges athletes face, particularly limited access to ranking events.
“This PSA-sanctioned competition gives players a rare opportunity to earn international ranking points while competing on home soil,”he said.
“ It is also one of the most significant squash tournaments held in Abuja and northern Nigeria in recent times.”
The tournament boasts strong participation, with 57 players confirmed in the men’s draw and 28 in the ladies category after final entries were vetted.
Beyond prize money, organisers have also provided accommodation for all participants, a move widely praised as a major boost for inclusivity and accessibility.
A detailed prize structure ensures broad financial rewards:
Men’s category: Winner (₦500,000), runner-up (₦250,000), with earnings extending down to ₦50,000 for round-of-32 players.
Ladies category: Winner (₦400,000), runner-up (₦250,000), with ₦25,000 guaranteed for early-round participants.
Attah emphasized that the initiative is backed by a global network of supporters, including Nigerians in the diaspora, and builds on more than two decades of grassroots sports development.
“This is more than a tournament—it’s a platform for youth development and long-term growth of squash in Nigeria,” he added.
The event has also drawn support from key stakeholders. Representatives from the National Sports Commission called for increased private sector involvement, while players’ representatives expressed confidence in a highly competitive outing.
Organisers have assured participants and spectators of robust arrangements, including security, medical coverage, and live streaming of matches from both indoor and underground courts.
Matches begin daily from 9 a.m., with scheduling adjustments expected in later rounds to optimize player recovery and enhance spectator experience.
The tournament will run from April 8 to April 11, further cementing Abuja’s growing reputation as a hub for elite squash competition in Nigeria.
