Abia State To Host Para Badminton Championships

Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti has announced that his administration has secured the hosting rights for two major international events , the Abia Para Badminton International Championship (September 30 – October 5, and All-African Para Badminton Championships (October 6 – 12, 2025... Read Full Article.. .

Both events will take place at the International Conference Center and the Township Stadium in Umuahia, which have been upgraded to meet international standards.

The state has also invested in modern equipment and ensured the availability of accessible facilities for athletes with disabilities.

The Governor disclosed this during a high-profile fundraising dinner held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, in support of the upcoming First Abia Para Badminton International Championship and the All-African Para Badminton Championships, scheduled to be held in Umuahia in 2025.

Governor Otti, represented by his Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, highlighted the impressive progress made in just two years including Abia athletes participating in six national competitions and successfully hosting a national tournament. These achievements, he said, have laid the foundation for the state to assume a global role.

Reflecting on Abia’s journey in para badminton, Governor Otti noted:
“For nine years, we hosted the Match Pass Para Badminton Championship with limited support and visibility. But under this administration, the narrative has changed.

“These championships go beyond competition. “They represent empowerment, inclusion, and the bold message that persons living with disabilities can excel and inspire.”

He described the fundraising dinner as an opportunity for public-private collaboration. While the government provides foundational support, he called on the private sector to partner in creating a legacy for Africa through inclusive sports.

“Every pledge tonight is more than a donation. It is an investment in human capital, a statement of inclusion, and a legacy for Nigeria and Africa,” he said during the unveiling of the event’s logo and mascots.

In his remarks, Mr. Kingsley Anosike, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, emphasized the economic benefits of hosting the championships. He stated that the events would boost the tourism, hospitality, and transport sectors, while also promoting youth engagement and social inclusion.

Also speaking, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, praised Governor Otti’s commitment to sports development. He highlighted the logistical support provided by the government, including wheelchair-accessible transport, and commended the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) for its technical partnership.

The President of the Para Badminton Federation, Mr. Francis Orbih, lauded the Governor’s support including his sponsorship of Abia’s team to the World Para Badminton Championships. He reaffirmed the Federation’s full backing and described the upcoming events as a defining moment for badminton in Nigeria and Africa.

Mr. Samuel Ekeoma, National Coordinator for Para Badminton and 2nd Vice President of the BFN, spoke on Abia’s growing reputation on the continental stage. He urged stakeholders to rally behind the events to further promote inclusion and excellence in African para sports.

Mr. Ekeoma noted that the championships aim not only to spotlight elite para badminton talent but also to position Abia ,and..  Read . .More —