Excitement is building at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, as the Abia National Para-Badminton Championship reaches its climax today, Thursday, July 17.
Athletes and fans alike are buzzing with energy and pride after a thrilling series of matches that have showcased resilience, talent, and sportsmanship at its finest.
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Among the tournament’s standout athletes is Nnanna Jeremiah, a 23-year-old Paralympian and Africa’s top-ranked SL4 male singles player, representing Abia State.
Speaking to sports journalists ahead of his highly anticipated final, Jeremiah praised the organization of the championship, calling it on par with international standards.
“This has been one of the best-organized events I’ve participated in locally,” he said. “The competition level has been intense, and it’s given me the perfect platform to sharpen my game for upcoming global events.”
Also drawing attention is Japhet Unana, a 16-year-old debutant and the youngest male para-athlete at the tournament. Competing in the SL4 men’s singles for Plateau State, Japhet, along with his teammate Mary Nathan (competing in the WH1 women’s category), expressed heartfelt appreciation for the organizers.
> “This event has exceeded our expectations,” said Mary. “For the first time, we didn’t have to worry about accessibility. The ramps, restrooms, and seating areas were designed with athletes like us in mind. It truly felt international.”
The competition has already produced notable winners. In the Women’s Singles SL3 category, world number 3 and Kwara State’s pride, Eniola Bolaji Mariam, clinched gold, reaffirming her dominance on the continent. Oriemezie Joy of Imo State secured silver, while Odilaka Uwalaka (Abia State) and Anna Nyam (Plateau State) both won bronze.
In the Women’s Doubles SL category, the team of Joy Ozioma (Rivers State) and Oriemezie Joy (Imo State) triumphed with gold. Duru Goodness Chinasa and Ogechi Onyenso, both from Imo, bagged silver, while Amarachi Precious Eziuka and Blessing Iroanya from Abia earned bronze.
More champions are expected to emerge from the final matches before the official closing ceremony begins at 1 PM today, hosted at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia.
Dignitaries already in attendance include Mr. Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, along with national officials and para-sports stakeholders. The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, will preside over the medal presentations and officially declare the tournament closed.
Organized by the Local Organizing Committee in partnership with the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, the championship has not only celebrated sporting excellence but has also set a new benchmark for hosting inclusive sports events in Nigeria.
As the finals approach and medals await their new owners, one message rings clear: the Abia National Para-Badminton Championship has elevated the game and inspired a new generation of champions
