Fourteen countries have arrived in Umuahia, Abia State, for the maiden International Para-Badminton Championship and the All-African Badminton Championship, set to run from September 30 to October 12, 2025.
The visiting nations include Brazil, India, Peru, Cameroon, Benin Republic, Tunisia, Mauritius, Rwanda, Egypt, and Zimbabwe, among others. More than 150 international players and 60 officials are expected to participate in the two major competitions.
Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Nwobilor Ananaba, confirmed the arrival of the teams on Sunday while addressing journalists on the state’s readiness. Represented by the Governor’s Special Assistant on Sports, Raymond Chima Ukwa, Ananaba said the government had provided an equitable playing field, complete with top-grade nets and mats, while assuring of a safe and conducive environment for athletes and officials throughout the events.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, expressed confidence in the state’s preparations and thanked Governor Alex Otti for hosting the world-class competition.
Also present at the briefing were Jeff Shigoli, CEO of the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA), and Dr Ahmed Reda, Head of Operations and Badminton World Federation (BWF) International Classifier. Both commended Nigeria’s efforts, noting that the country has become only the third African nation to host international para-badminton activities.
The double championships are expected to boost Nigeria’s profile in global badminton while showcasing Abia State as a rising hub for international sporting events.
About the Author
