Abia State is set to welcome the world as it hosts two major para-badminton events — the inaugural Abia State Para-Badminton International and the All-Africa Para-Badminton Championships — scheduled for September 30 to October 12, 2025, in Umuahia.
Endorsed by both the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA), the tournaments will draw athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond.
Speaking at the Media and Marketing Reveal in Umuahia on Tuesday, Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, who chairs the Main Organising Committee, described the championships as a defining moment in the state’s sports history and a powerful statement of inclusion, resilience, and global cooperation.
“Hosting these championships is more than a sporting achievement. It is a statement of our capacity, our hospitality, and our vision,” Emetu said.
Organised by the Badminton Federation of Nigeria and the Abia State Badminton Association, in partnership with the Abia State Government and the Ministry of Sports, the events aim to position Abia as a growing hub for international sports and raise the bar for para-sports hosting in Nigeria and Africa.
Praising Governor Alex Otti’s administration for its commitment to inclusive development and youth empowerment through sports, Emetu noted that the championships will have significant economic and social benefits, stimulating hospitality, tourism, and transport, while inspiring young athletes.
He also revealed that Governor Otti had acquired Africa’s first set of cutting-edge para-badminton maintenance equipment, placing Abia at the forefront of sports development on the continent.
National President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Orbih, applauded the Governor’s strong backing for para-badminton, while the BFN’s 2nd Vice President and National Coordinator for Para-Badminton, Mr. Ekeoma Samuel, confirmed the state’s readiness to host the historic event.
“With over 224 international athletes from 20 countries expected, these championships will be the first of their kind in the state, setting a new standard for para-badminton in Africa,” Samuel said.
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