Otti Closes Abia Int’l Badminton Games, Opens African Championships

The Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has declared the first Abia International Badminton Championship closed, while also opening the All-African Badminton Championships.

The Governor emphasized the importance of inclusion in sports, noting that people with disabilities should have equal opportunities to participate.

Speaking at the event on Sunday, Governor Otti highlighted the story of John Foppe, a motivational speaker born without limbs, to illustrate the power of resilience and determination.

He also commended the participants for demonstrating that their disabilities would not stop them from participating in sports.

The Governor announced that the state would give the 14 participating countries the Naira equivalent of $50,000. He also revealed that the state had approved a request to host the competition annually.

Governor Otti praised the participants, saying, “What is important is participating. That you participated is good enough. If you did not win any medal today, be sure you can win tomorrow once you see the course.”

The Governor also expressed gratitude to the participants from outside Nigeria, particularly those from India and others, for traveling to Abia State to participate in the championship.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, also thanked Governor Alex Otti for his vision and support in making the championship a success.

“This championship has not only been about medals or competition, it’s been about redefined possibilities, proving that abilities know no boundaries,” Ananaba said.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Badminton World Federation, Mr. Jeff Shingoli, also commended the Governor and the people of Abia State for their commitment to hosting the world’s best para badminton athletes.

“Abia State and indeed Nigeria has shown outstanding commitment by welcoming the world’s best and of course Africa’s best,” Shingoli said.

The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Orbih, thanked Governor Otti for sponsoring the competition and congratulated all participants.

He advised them to carry forward the spirit of unity and excellence that characterized the competition and wished the Governor would make the event an annual affair.

Nigeria won three gold, four silver and nine bronze medals to occupy the fourth position at the finals of the historic event on Sunday at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.

Bolaji, ranked second globally in the SL3 category by the Para World Badminton Federation, defeated Cameroon’s Danyele Mouafo 2-0 (21-7, 21-3).

Also, Nigeria’s Jeremiah Nnanna, who is ranked first in Africa in the SL4 class, outshined his compatriot, Yahaya Ayuba 2-0(21-9, 21-8) in men’s singles SL4, to win a gold medal.

Similarly, Mary Nathan clinched a gold medal for Nigeria against Brazil’s Juscileia Silva 2-1(5-21, 21-18, 21-17) in women’s singles WH1.

Nigeria’s silver medalists include Jeremiah Nnanna, Obinna Nwosu, Chinyere Okoro, Yahaya Ayuba and Ijeoma Chukwuemeka.

Brazil topped the medal lists with seven gold, three silver and five bronze, while India clinched the second position with six gold, five silver and 14 bronze.

Peru came third with six gold, three silver and two bronze medals.

A total of 114 players from 13 nations competed in 19 events that were held from Sept. 30 to Oct. 5.

The nations include Brazil, India, Peru, Egypt, Tunisia, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, DR Congo, Mauritius, Mozambique and host nation, Nigeria.

The medals were presented to the winners at the closing ceremony that was attended by Gov. Alex Otti of Abia.

The tournament will be followed by the All Africa Para Badminton Championship from Oct. 7 to Oct. 12 at the same venue.

In a vote of thanks, the Vice President of the Para Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Ekeoma Samuel, appreciated Governor Otti’s provisions, including mats and wheelchairs, and expressed hope that the Governor would host the international championship again next year.

The event showcased the commitment of the Abia State government to promoting sports development and providing opportunities for athletes with disabilities.

THE WHISTLER also reports that the championship aimed to redefine possibilities and promote inclusivity in sports.