Abia To Host First Int’l Para-Badminton Championship In West Africa
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has inaugurated the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) and Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 1st Abia State Para Badminton International Championship and the All African Para Badminton Championship scheduled to hold in Abia from 30th September to 16th October.
Speaking at the Government House, Umuahia, on Friday, the Governor, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, commended sports managers in Nigeria and called for more focus on grassroots development, coaching, and talent scouting.
“Let Abia be known not only for its enterprise but for its athletic excellence,” he said, urging continued collaboration with schools and local clubs.
“I applaud your efforts so far and urge you not to relent. Continue to scout for talent, mentor young players, and collaborate with schools and local clubs to keep the sports alive and vibrant.
Let us prioritize grassroots development, training programmes for coaches, better facilities, and most importantly, opportunities for our young athletes to compete locally, nationally, and internationally,” he said.
Governor Otti praised the Badminton Federation of Nigeria for its role in promoting the sport, stating that its commitment has laid a strong foundation for badminton development across the country.
The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, said the state met sports in a “dead state” but is now progressing under the present administration. He noted that Abia athletes, with the Governor’s support, have participated in about seven international events, including the Olympics, where they won gold and silver medals.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Orbih, described the upcoming tournament as the first of its kind in Nigeria and West Africa. He said the event positions Abia as a centre for sports development in Africa.
National Coordinator, Para Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Samuel Ekeoma, on his part, said the game started in Abia and acknowledged the Governor’s support in hosting the event. He disclosed that a specially-designed accessible bus for the competition is already on the way to Abia.
Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, also commended the government’s efforts, saying sports in Abia was “almost moribund” but has now improved significantly.
“And today, as we speak, the government of the day in Abia, the government that has come to work has brought sports from the dungeon and those at the National Sports Commission will attest to the fact that sports in Abia is doing well,” George said.
THE WHISTLER reports that the committees, chaired by the Deputy Governor, have 16 members each and are tasked with organizing and overseeing the championship.
Abia To Host First Int’l Para-Badminton Championship In West Africa is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
