President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, has praised the recent 5th Abia National Open Para‑Badminton Championship in Umuahia, describing it as both a “major success” and an “eye‑opener”.
The para‑badminton tournament, which took place from July 14 to 17, saw host state Abia top the medal table.
Abia topped the medal table with an impressive haul of 17 medals — 5 gold, 5 silver, and 7 bronze.
Plateau State came second with 8 medals (4 gold, 1 silver, 3 bronze). Ogun State secured third place with 5 medals (3 gold, 2 bronze). Kwara followed in fourth with 3 gold medals, and Imo rounded off the top five with a total of 9 medals (1 gold, 5 silver, 3 bronze).
Other states on the medal table include:
Rivers – 6th place with 3 medals (1 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze)
Kebbi – 7th place with 2 medals (1 gold, 1 silver)
Delta – 8th place with 1 gold medal
Akwa Ibom – 9th place with 2 silver medals
Bayelsa – 10th place with 5 medals (1 silver, 4 bronze)
Lagos – 11th with 1 silver and 1 bronze
Anambra – 12th with 1 silver
Taraba – 13th with 1 bronze
Ebonyi – 14th with no medal
Orbih commended the high quality of play and highlighted how emerging talents from less-expected states overcame established stars.
He said the upsets are “a positive development for para‑badminton in Nigeria,” noting the event’s role in uncovering fresh stars and emphasizing the depth of talent nationwide.
Francis Orbih also celebrated Governor Alex Otti’s support and Matt the convergence of talent, resilience, inclusivity, unity, and determination showcased throughout the tournament.
Orbih reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to sustaining the momentum and expanding opportunities for para‑athletes ahead of upcoming international championships.
