by Willy Okonji~

LAGOS, Nigeria – The Squash Section of the Lagos Country Club was a beehive of activity as the curtains fell on the maiden Red-Streak National Under-19 Invitational Squash Tournament. Between April 15 and 17, the glass courts witnessed high-octane action, proving that the future of the racket sport in Nigeria is indeed “green-white-green.”
The tournament, powered by Red-Streak Nigeria Company Limited (the brains behind the refreshing Lime Delight drink), wasn’t just about the trophies; it was a carnival of talent. Over 60 budding stars from various states descended on Lagos, bringing the kind of energy usually reserved for a Lagos “Owambe,” but with the precision of professional athletes.

The Champions’ Circle

In the boys’ category, Quadri Yusuf (Lagos/JHSF) lived up to his billing. Yusuf dominated the court with a clinical performance to claim the ultimate prize, leaving Friday Daniel (Headwaters) to settle for the runner-up spot. The bronze honors went to Elisha Daniel (Lagos) and Ogun’s Ayomide Omotayo.
Over in the girls’ division, Ogun State’s Awawu Balogun proved why she is the one to watch. She outmaneuvered Kwara’s Aishat Abdulraheem to clinch the title, while Zainab Ishola and Grace Gana shared the third-place podium.

Dr Niyi Ibrahim, Secretary, Squash Section, Lagos Country Club, The Chairman of the Section, Mr Sesan Asani, Winner of the Female Category of the Red-Streak National under 19 Squash Invitational, Awawu Balogun, Winner of the Male Category, Quadri Yusuf, Lady Taiwo Badejo & Sir ‘Semoore Badejo, sponsors of the tournament.

The “Rumble” at the Club

It wasn’t just the youngsters having all the fun. The “Rumble”—a side attraction for club members—saw over 30 players battle it out in what members described as the biggest turnout in recent history. Onemena Ikpikpini emerged as the king of the veteran “Rumble,” while the Squash Section Chairman, Sesan Asani, bagged the prize for the most games played.

Dr Niyi Ibrahim, Secretary, Squash Section, Lagos Country Club, The Chairman of the Section, winner of the most game played, Mr Sesan Asani, Chairman,Badminton Section,Lagos Country Club, Mr. Kayode Badejo, Winner of the Squash Rumble competition Engr. Onemena Ikpikpini and Sir ‘Semoore Badejo, the sponsors of the Rumble.

Words from the Top

Speaking on the success of the debut edition, the Chairman of Red-Streak Nigeria, Semoore Badejo, expressed his delight at the raw talent on display.

“The turnout has been impressive for a maiden edition. We must catch them young. With regular competitions like this, Nigeria has the potential to produce world-class squash players,” Badejo remarked.

The Squash Section Chairman, Sesan Asani, echoed these sentiments, thanking the sponsors for breathing new life into the local squash scene.
“We appreciate Red-Streak for supporting this initiative. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to an even bigger and better edition next year,” Asani stated.

The Chairman, Squash Section, Lagos Country Club, Mr. Sesan Asani presenting a plaque of honour in appreciation of Red Streak sponsorship of the Maiden edition of the National under 19 Squash Invitational Tournament to Sir ‘Semoore & Lady Taiwo Badejo.

Beyond the Trophies

True to the Nigerian spirit of hospitality, no one went home empty-handed. Participants were treated to branded souvenirs and endless refreshments, ensuring the tournament felt like a true celebration of grassroots sports.
As the players return to their respective bases, one thing is clear: the Red-Streak Invitational has laid a solid foundation for the next generation of Nigerian squash legends.

Paparazzi Online – Fast, Local, and On Point.