Governor Otti Commends Participants as Para Badminton Championship Ends in Umuahia

The First Abia Para Badminton International Tournament has ended in Umuahia with Nigeria clinching 3 gold, 4 silver, and 9 bronze medals, finishing fourth overall. Among the medalists was Abia’s own Jeremiah Nnanna, who won gold in a proud moment for the host state.

Other Nigerian athletes who struck gold included Paralympic bronze medalist Eniola Bolaji, who defeated Cameroon’s Danyele Mouafo in the women’s singles SL3 category, and Mary Nathan, who outplayed Brazil’s Juscileia Silva to win the women’s singles WH1 event.

Declaring the competition closed and flagging off the All-African Para Badminton Championships at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, announced the approval for Abia to host the event again next year.

Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusion and support for persons with disabilities, stressing that leadership must create opportunities for all.

“On the request to hold this competition again in Abia State next year, it has already been approved. We look forward to seeing you again,” Otti said. “Our mantra in Abia is inclusion. We provide equal opportunities for everyone, including people living with disabilities. Even in our new public transport system, we are ensuring wheelchair users have the same comfort as everyone else.”

He congratulated all 14 participating countries and announced cash rewards for their athletes.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, commended Governor Otti’s leadership and vision, saying his support made the championship a success.

“This event was not only about medals. It was about redefining possibilities and proving that abilities know no boundaries,” Ananaba said.

The Chief Executive Officer and representative of the Badminton World Federation, Mr. Jeff Shingoli, praised Abia State and Nigeria for hosting a world-class event.

“Abia State and Nigeria have shown outstanding commitment by welcoming the best para badminton athletes. Together, we are building champions on and off the court,” Shingoli stated.

In his address, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Orbih, thanked Governor Otti for sponsoring the event and urged that it be made an annual competition.

“Your presence and partnership show your commitment to developing para badminton in Nigeria, Africa, and globally,” Orbih added.

In his vote of thanks, the Vice President of the Para Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Ekeoma Samuel, commended the Abia State Government for its logistical support, including the provision of mats and wheelchairs, and expressed optimism that Abia would host the event again next year.

The ceremony featured the presentation of medals and trophies to winners and was attended by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, members of the State Executive Council, sports officials, and other dignitaries.