By Aderonke Ojo
Vice President of the Nigeria Squash Federation, Haniel Hadison, has set the tone for a new era in Nigerian squash following the successful staging of the maiden Haniel Hadison and Friends Men/Ladies PSA Satellite Tournament in Abuja.
Describing the initiative as a bold move to give back and inspire the next generation, Hadison said the tournament marks a decisive step in repositioning the sport.
“This is about adding value and creating opportunities for our youth. We came together, committed our resources, and delivered a tournament we can all be proud of,” he said.
The championship attracted top male and female players, alongside former professionals, in a strong display of unity and renewed passion for squash development in the country.
Buoyed by the success, Hadison has already set his sights on the international stage, unveiling plans to sponsor Nigerian players to a world championship in Canada this July.
He revealed that about ₦55 million is needed for the trip, with registration fees alone pegged at £11,500 (approximately ₦24 million), due within two weeks.
He called on corporate bodies, stakeholders and sports enthusiasts to rally support, stressing that collective backing is key to Nigeria’s global ambitions.
Also lending his voice, Nigeria Squash Federation President, Sunday Egberipou, praised the initiative and the level of competition on display.
“I expected this outcome. These young players are the best from the under-19 trials and they are the future of Nigerian squash. They should be winning at every level,” Egberipou said.
The impressive turnout and support from ex-professionals as clear signs that the sport is regaining momentum.
Looking ahead, Egberipou disclosed that more high-level tournaments are on the way, including a major event in Benin, Edo State, with increased focus on doubles competitions following earlier success in that format.
On international exposure, he was emphatic: “If we want to compete with the best, we must start now. These players need to face the world early to grow into top contenders.”
He added that efforts are ongoing to revive squash facilities nationwide, including plans to restore courts at the National Stadium and upgrade indoor venues.
With Hadison leading the charge, Nigerian squash appears to be gaining fresh energy and a clear path toward producing globally competitive players.
The finals delivered thrilling encounters in both the women’s and men’s categories, showcasing resilience and top-level performance.
In the Ladies Final, Monsural Durosinlorun of Kwara staged an impressive comeback to defeat Awawu Balogun of Ogun State in a tightly contested five-set match.
After dropping the first two games 3–11 and 7–11, Durosinlorun rallied keenly , dominating the next three sets 11–4, 11–9, and 11–7 to secure a 3–2 victory.
The Men’s Final saw Yusuf Quadri of Lagos claim a convincing 3–1 win over Femi Shedara of Edo.
Shedara started strong, taking the opening set 11–6, but Quadri responded with authority, winning the next three games 11–4, 11–6, and 11–7 to seal the title.
