Board member of the Nigeria Squash Federation, Wilson Egberipou, has appealed for increased support and funding for the sport as the federation prepares for zonal elections this weekend and the General Elections scheduled for October 18 at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja. Egberipou said he believes the sport can only flourish if stakeholders commit to sustained backing and administrative passion.
“The sport can only take off if proper backing and support is accorded to the federation,” Egberipou said, urging government agencies, private sponsors and sports lovers to invest at grassroots and elite levels.
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He highlighted the upcoming elections as a pivotal moment to elect leaders who are committed to development rather than those seeking titles for prestige. “We hope the incoming board members will be as passionate in developing the sport in Nigeria,” he added.
Egberipou emphasised practical needs such as facility upgrades, coach education, youth outreach and competition funding.
“Without quality courts, trained coaches and regular competitions, our talent pipeline will remain stunted,” he warned, pointing to the correlation between investment and long-term success. He called for collaborative approaches, including partnerships with schools, local clubs and international federations, to raise standards quickly.
On the administrative timetable, Egberipou confirmed that the federation has fixed October 18 for its General Elections to be held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, describing the venue as symbolic of a fresh start for the sport.
“The elections present an opportunity to chart a new course. Voters must choose people with clear development plans,” he said, urging transparency and inclusiveness in the electoral process.
Egberipou also appealed to the media to give squash more coverage, arguing that visibility attracts sponsors and inspires children to take up the game.
“Publicity turns potential supporters into partners. We need more spotlight on achievements and on pathways for upcoming players,” he said.
As the zonal and general elections approach, Egberipou’s plea underscores the urgent need for deliberate investment and visionary leadership to transform Nigerian squash from a niche activity into a competitive sport capable of producing regional and international stars.
