Abia State government has concluded plans to host the first Abia Para Badminton International and the All Africa Para Badminton championships.
The two events have been selected for 30 September to 5 October and 6 October to 12 October at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, the state capital.
Speaking on Tuesday during a media interactive session, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, said the back-to-back world-class events with the backing of the Badminton World Federation and the Badminton Confederation of Africa will mark a defining moment in the state’s history of hosting championships.
Emetu, who is the chairman main organising committee for the events, stated that hosting the events would not have been possible without the vision and unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti.
He added that Governor Otti’s administration places sports, inclusion, diversity and opportunity at the heart of its development agenda.
The deputy governor, who maintained that every athlete deserves an opportunity to compete and excel on a global stage, urged all athletes who have indicated interest to compete in the championships to do so with every sense of determination and pride.
He said, ‘The hosting of these championships in Abia is more than a sporting achievement, it’s a statement of our capacity, hospitality and vision.
‘This is the first time that such a high-profile badminton event is taking place on our soil. It shows that Abia is not only a sports destination in Nigeria but as a proud member of the global badminton family. It’s an opportunity for our state to exercise its organizational excellence, cultural warmth and unwavering respect for athletes of all abilities.
‘Sports had always had the power to unite people beyond borders, politics and differences. Para sports in particular embody resilience, courage and triumph of the human spirit.
‘Over the two weeks for the championships, Abia will welcome athletes, coaches and fans from across Africa and around the world. This inflow will stimulate our local economy, hospitality, tourism and transport and small businesses.
‘More importantly, it will inspire a new generation of young people in Abia and Nigeria to embrace sportsmanship, perseverance and inclusivity
‘As we flag off these championships, I call on the stakeholders, corporate sponsors, government agencies, the media, sports associations and indeed all our citizens to give all their full support. Let us fill the stands, cheer our athletes up, provide our services and protect the positive image of Abia State to the world.
‘Together we can make this championship a benchmark for excellence in sports and hosting in Africa. To our para athletes out there, you are the heart of this championship, your determination will inspire us all, compete with our pride and know that you are already champions in the eyes of Abia State’.
In a remark, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports development in the state, Mr Nwaobilor Ananaba, commended Governor Otti for providing all logistics needed for the competition, including a wheelchair enable bus for transportation of athletes during the championships.
He said, ‘I wish to sincerely appreciate the main organising committee, the local organising committee for their tireless efforts and teamwork’.
‘I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Badminton Federation of Nigeria under the leadership of Mr Francis Orbih, Their unwavering partnership and unrelenting support, technical expertise and teamwork have helped this organisation of these championships to move forward.
Also speaking, the National Coordinator Para Badminton Federation and 2nd vice president Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr Ekeoma Samuel, revealed that over 224 athletes from 16 countries have already indicated interest in participating in the two championships.
