DOMINANCE, DRAMA, AND HOME CROWD HEROICS AS ABIA PARA BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIP SERVES OFF IN STYLE​

The air in Umuahia was thick with excitement and pride on Monday, July 14, 2025, as the 5th Abia National Open Para Badminton Championship officially served off at the International Conference Centre (ICC). From Lagos to Kebbi, Bayelsa to Ebonyi, athletes and officials from 13 states have converged in the State capital, turning the usually serene ICC into a hive of energy and anticipation.
For many of the participants, para-badminton is more than a sport. It is a story of resilience, a chance to prove that physical limitations do not define human potential. A GOVERNMENT THAT CARES
Opening the ceremony, Hon. Anyaele David, the Special Adviser to the Governor on the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities, gave a moving speech that resonated with the athletes seated before him.
He thanked the Governor Alex Otti administration for what he called a genuinely inclusive approach to governance, especially in prioritising the welfare of persons with disabilities.
“This championship is proof that in Abia, no one is left behind,” he said, pausing briefly to take in the applause that followed. “The consistent prioritisation of persons with disabilities in sports and beyond shows that this administration is walking the talk.”
He concluded by wishing all athletes a memorable and fulfilling experience in God’s Own State. A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME
The Honourable Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, took the microphone next.
His message was clear: the championship is not just a competition, but a test of Abia’s readiness to step onto the global stage.
“What we are seeing today reflects His Excellency’s commitment to revitalising sports,” he said. “It is also a rehearsal for the First Abia Para Badminton International Championship, which will put Umuahia on the global map from September 30 to October 12, 2025.” THE GOVERNOR’S RALLYING CRY
Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for, the Governor’s message.
Representing Governor Alex Chioma Otti (OFR), Mrs. Ijeoma Thomas, the Special Adviser on People with Vulnerabilities and Poverty Alleviation, took centre stage.
She described para-badminton as more than just a game, calling it a stage where “ability rises above disability, and where courage tells its own story.”
“This is not just about competition. It is about celebrating strength, grit, and resilience,” she said, before urging the athletes to compete fairly, respect one another, and create performances they will forever be proud of.
With a warm smile, she looked across the hall and concluded with the words that set the tone for the days ahead:
“Let the games begin!”
The crowd erupted in applause as athletes prepared to make history. Matches will run daily until July 18, with fans eager to see who will emerge as champions.
As Umuahia hosts this celebration of courage, many believe the city is quietly becoming the heart of para-badminton in West Africa.

See More Updates