Abia set to host two international badminton championships competition
Ogbonnaya Ikokwu, Umuahia
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 September 30 to October 5 and October 6 to October 12 at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia the state capital.
Speaking on Tuesday during a media interactive session the Deputy Governor of Abia State Egnr. 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 marks a defining moment in the state’s history of hosting the championships.
Emetu, who is the chairman, organizing 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 the Gov. Otti’s led administration places sports, inclusion, diversity and opportunity at the heart of its developmental agenda.
The deputy governor also maintained that every athlete deserves an opportunity to compete and excel on a global stage.
He urged all athletes who have indicated interest to compete in the championships to do so with every sense of determination and pride.
According to him, “the hosting of these championships in Abia is more than a sporting achievements, it’s a statement of our capacity, hospitality and vision.
,”This is the first time that such a high profile badminton events are taking place on our soil. It shows that Abia is not only a sport destination in Nigeria but as a proud member of the global badminton family. it’s an opportunity for our state to exercise it’s organizational excellency, cultural warmth and unwavering respect for athletes of all ability.
“Sports had always had the power to unite people beyond borders, politics and differences. Para sports in particular embodies resilient, courage and triumph of the human spirit.
“Over the two weeks of 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 this championships, l call on the stakeholders, corperate sponsors, government agencies, the media, sports association 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 bench mark for excellence in sports and hosting in Africa. To our para athletes out there, you are the heart of this championship, you determination will inspire us all, compete with our pride and know that you are already champions in the eyes of Abia State”.
In his remarks, 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 enabled bus for transportating the athletes during the championships.
He said,” I wish to sincerely appreciate the local organizing committee for their tireless efforts and team work.
“I also extend my heart felt gratitude to the Badminton Federation of Nigeria under the leadership of Mr Francis Orbih, their unwavering partnership and unrelenting support, technical expertise and team work has helped in the organization 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 20 countries have already indicated interest to participate in the two championships.