Abia State is fully prepared to host the 5th edition of the National Para Badminton Championship, marking a significant step in the state’s journey to becoming a hub for inclusive sports in Nigeria.
The national championship, scheduled to take place from July 12 to 18, 2025, will have 16 out of the 36 States of Nigeria, featuring in the tournament that would serve as a preparatory platform for both the Abia International Badminton Championship and the Para Badminton Africa Championship, which Abia is set to host later this year.
Speaking at a press conference in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, expressed gratitude to the state’s Governor, Dr Alex Otti, for his unwavering commitment to the growth of sports in Abia.
According to the Sports Commissioner, the competition is a signal to the world that Abia is ready to host international sporting events, with sports providing benefits that span through engagement promotion, community development and tourism, adding that sporting activities help uncover hidden talents and stimulate local business activities.
He acknowledged the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA), for granting the hosting rights to Abia and praised the BCA’s Event Director, Faadil Sayed, for his technical input and oversight in ensuring that the facilities on ground for the game, meet international standards.
According to Ananaba, the event is a test run to assess Abia’s preparedness in terms of equipment, logistics, and athlete selection ahead of the upcoming international tournaments.
Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon Nwaobilor Ananaba
The Sports Commissioner lauded the sterling contributions of Dr Alex Otti, in preparation for the Badminton championship, commending him for purchasing all equipments needed for the game and for renovating the stage to international standard.
In his remarks, Faadil Sayed noted that hosting an international para badminton event required strict compliance with global regulations, disclosing that the support from the Abia state government and local stakeholders has been impressive.
BCA’s Event Director, Faadil Sayed
He stated that he has documented his report and recommendations for submission to the Badminton Confederation of Africa after the championship.
Also, the Secretary-General of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Mr Emmanuel Oludare, commended Abia’s readiness and noted that the state’s initiative could inspire more Nigerian states to participate in hosting future tournaments.
Secretary General, Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Emmanuel Oludare
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Vulnerable Persons, Lady Ifeoma Thomas, described the initiative as a testament to Governor Otti’s inclusive policies, using sports to uplift marginalized communities, particularly persons with disabilities.
Special Assistant on Vulnerable Persons in Abia, Lady Ifeoma Thomas (L)
Similarly, the National Coordinator of Para Badminton of Nigeria, Samuel Ekeoma, expressed delight that the game, although still gaining popularity in Nigeria, has already produced remarkable results, including the country’s first female para badminton medalist, Eniola Bolaji.
National Coordinator Para Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Samuel Ekeoma
He said through para badminton, people with disabilities now have a platform to shine on the international stage, commending the Governor for making Abia sporting destination.
In their separate speeches, the Athletes on ground, Eniola Bolaji and Jeremiah Nnanna, representing Kwara and Abia States respectively, expressed confidence in their preparations and pledged to deliver gold medals for their states.
The Chairman of the Abia State Badminton Association, Mr Abel Sunday, in a vote of thanks, applauded the Governor’s support and noted that the event would further establish Abia as a destination for major sporting events.
Meanwhile, the championship would feature male and female participants competing in the following six para badminton categories; Standing Lower (SL3), Standing Lower (SL4), Standing Upper (SU5) Wheelchair 1, Wheelchair 2, Short Height (SH).
