SPORTS
Abia State Makes Global Sporting History as Deputy Governor Emetu Officially Opens First-ever Para Badminton International and All-African Championships in Umuahia
In a historic moment for Nigerian and African sports, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, officially declared open the First Abia Para Badminton International Championship and the All-African Para Badminton Championship at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
The groundbreaking event, sanctioned by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and organized under the Para Badminton Confederation Africa, marks the first time that Abia State and indeed Nigeria is hosting a para badminton competition of such global magnitude.
Speaking at the vibrant opening ceremony, Engr. Emetu hailed the championship as a historic milestone, noting that it firmly positions Abia State on the global sporting map as a hub for inclusive sports development.
“Today, Abia State takes its rightful place on the global sporting map. This is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of resilience, unity, and the unbreakable human spirit,” he said.
The Deputy Governor underscored that para sports serve as a profound reminder that ability is not limited by disability, inspiring society by breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and showcasing the strength of human determination. He also commended the visionary leadership of the Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, whose unwavering support and commitment to inclusivity made hosting the championship possible.
According to Engr. Emetu, Governor Otti’s administration is determined to build a State that works for all, with inclusivity guiding all sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sports.
He further extended appreciation to athletes, partners, sponsors, officials, and members of the media, stating that their contributions were invaluable in projecting Abia to the world as a land of opportunity and excellence. The Deputy Governor urged athletes to compete with pride and fairness, inspiring the world with their courage and resilience.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, highlighted the championship’s significance, emphasizing that it represents far more than a sporting contest.
“This championship is more than a sporting event, it is a symbol of progress, inclusion, and global recognition for Abia,” he said.
Sir Ananaba also pointed to the economic potential of hosting such an international event, noting that the influx of participants and visitors would boost the local economy through increased patronage of hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and small businesses.
In their goodwill messages, Barr. Francis Orbit, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, and Mr. Jeff Shigoli, CEO of the Badminton Confederation of Africa, lauded Abia State for its visionary leadership and commitment to inclusive sports.
“Abia State has made history. Thanks to His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, we are witnessing the first-ever international para-badminton championship in West Africa,” Orbit affirmed.
The opening ceremony was a spectacular showcase, featuring cultural performances, a parade of participating para badminton teams from across Africa and beyond, alongside dignitaries, sports administrators, government officials, and the international badminton community. The event set the tone for several days of intense, inspirational, and globally significant competition in Umuahia.
By hosting these landmark championships, Abia State has boldly stepped onto the global sporting stage, reinforcing its vision of leadership through inclusion, innovation, and international collaboration.