From TCNEWS
The 5th Abia National Open Para Badminton Championship has officially commenced in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, with over 120 athletes from across Nigeria converging for the prestigious event. The tournament marks a significant milestone in the state’s growing ambition to become a hub for inclusive sports development in Africa.
The opening ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, attracted dignitaries from the local and international badminton community. In his address, the Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, commended Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering support for the state’s sports sector and his role in securing the facilities required to host the tournament.
“This championship is not only about competition,” Mr. Ananaba said, “it is a litmus test to assess Abia’s preparedness for future international engagements, including the upcoming Abia International Badminton Championship and the All-African Para Badminton Championship.”
He highlighted the state’s recent investments in sports infrastructure, emphasizing that the tournament will evaluate the suitability of venues, equipment, and athlete accommodation, particularly focusing on accessibility for para-athletes.
Representing the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA), Mr. Fadil Sayeed, who is also a member of the Badminton World Federation (BWF), explained that the current national championship serves as a test event to determine the country’s and state’s capacity to host a full-scale international tournament in 2025.
“We are here to inspect the facilities, especially in terms of accessibility for wheelchair athletes,” Sayeed said. “So far, the commitment shown by the state government and the organizing committee is encouraging.”
The championship is not only about showcasing talent but also about reinforcing a message of inclusion. Several speakers, including Mrs. Ifeoma Thomas, Special Assistant to the Governor on Vulnerable Groups and Poverty Alleviation, highlighted the tournament’s deeper social mission.
“This event is a testament to Governor Otti’s vision of promoting equality through sports,” she said. “It proves that para-athletes can shine just as brightly when given the right platform.”
The Secretary-General of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Oludare Davis, and National Para Badminton Coordinator, Mr. Samuel Ekeoma, echoed similar sentiments, describing the championship as a stepping stone toward greater continental recognition.
They also confirmed that the First Abia State Para Badminton International will be held from September 30 to October 12, 2025, with support from the BCA and the BWF.
In a brief speech, Mr. Abel Sunday, Chairman of the Abia State Badminton Association, extended gratitude to Governor Otti and his team for placing the state on the international sports map. He also appreciated the Badminton Federation of Nigeria for its continued efforts in nurturing the sport nationwide.
The tournament, currently underway, features 120 para-athletes from all 36 states of Nigeria, competing in singles and doubles categories across multiple classifications. The event will run through the week, with winners earning points that may qualify them for upcoming international events.
This championship not only spotlights Nigeria’s growing commitment to inclusive sports but also signals Africa’s rising potential to host world-class para-sporting events. With eyes on the 2025 All-African Para Badminton Championship, Abia is positioning itself as a beacon of accessibility, equity, and athletic excellence on the continent.
Recall that the Abia State Government inaugurated the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 1st Abia Para Badminton International Championship and the Africa Para Badminton Championships 2025. The inauguration took place at the Abia State Government House, Umuahia, with the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, presiding over the ceremony. These championships are scheduled to hold from September 30 to October 12, 2025, marking Nigeria’s debut in hosting an international para badminton event.
During the event, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, commended Governor Alex Otti for his administration’s strong investment in sports, highlighting the significant economic and reputational benefits these tournaments would bring to Abia State. Orbih described the hosting as a landmark moment for equity and inclusion in sports, with potential to stimulate the local economy and inspire para-athletes across Africa. He assured the state of BFN’s full technical support and urged the committees to uphold integrity and excellence, emphasizing the global attention the event would attract.
Governor Otti, represented by Deputy Governor Emetu, expressed pride in the strides made by the BFN and the local badminton community, stressing Abia’s potential as a continental sports hub. He encouraged greater investment in grassroots development to produce future champions. Following the inauguration, Orbih led a tour of the event facilities and official hotels, expressing satisfaction with the ongoing renovations and preparations to meet international standards.
