The All African Para Badminton Championships 2025 hosted by Nigeria has ended in Umuahia with Team Nigeria topping the medals chat with 36 medals, including 10 gold, 13 silver and 13 bronze
Speaking on Sunday, at the closing ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, Abia state Governor, Dr Alex Otti described the event as a celebration of resilience and unity, drawing participants from across African countries.
The Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba appreciated the various participating countries at the tournament.
“This is a celebration of resilience and unity. From Benin Republic, to Egypt, to Cameroon, to Mauritius, Mozambique, to Tanzania, Rwanda, DR Congo, Kenya, Mozambique, and Burkina Faso.
“You have all brought your colours, cultures, and courage to our country. Together we have written a beautiful history of inclusion through sports. One that will echo across Africa, years to come.
The Governor equally appreciated the Badminton World Federation and the Badminton Confederation of Africa for their unwavering partnership and professionalism that was brought to bear at the event and that,
“we have not only shared a championship, we have built friendship and taken order, and built us together as one sporting family.
“Special commendation goes to Badminton Federation of Nigeria and its board, who stood watch day and night to ensure we met every standard. To the local organising committee, subcommittees, and countless volunteers and support staff, you are the silent heroes of this success.
“To our dear athletes, your performance has lifted our spirit and remind us why sports is one of the humanity’s finest gifts, which you return home with medals and memories. You have all won in courage and character.
Governor Otti, who celebrated the winners, assured of his willingness to host the event again next year, saying that Nigeria is inspired by hosting the event.
“For us in Nigeria, this experience has been a priceless classroom.
We have learned, improved, and been inspired.
“And let me assure you, Abia will bid to host again. And when we do, we will offer an experience that will far surpass the pioneer effort.
“As we prepare to depart, may you carry with you the warmth, friendship, and hospitality from Umuahia. Let the memories of your time here remain with you, that Abia welcomes the world, and the world is always welcome to Abia,” Gov. Otti stated.
Also, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, expressed his honour and joy at the successful completion of the tournament.
He said over the few days, spetators witnessed a remarkable display of courage, skill, and determination, adding that, that the athletes have not only competed with excellence but have also inspired people with their resilience and sportsmanship spirit.
Orbih extended profound gratitude to the Governor and people of Abia state for their support, and praised event partners, sponsors, and organising committees for their hard work. He also appreciated the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA) for their unwavering support and guidance.
Speaking in an interview, Abia state Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George said the competition has exposed Abia to the world and added that the Governor gave express approval for the state to host the All African Para Badminton Championship again.
While thanking Governor Alex Otti for
his massive support to the game, Comrade Obioma George commended the athlets, coaches and the local organising committee for their contributions towards the success of the championship.
The result of the championship which had 12 countries participating in 19 events shows that, the National Olympic Committee of Kenya occupied the second position with 11 medals including 4 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals.
Egypt emerged the top three with 8 medals, including 3 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze. Republic of Benin came fourth with 1 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals, while Congo Democratic took the fifth position with 1 gold and 2 bronze.
Also, Tunisia came sixth with 1 silver and 1 bronze, as Cameroun was placed at seventh position with 6 bronze medals while
Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and Rwanda rounded off the top 10 with 2 bronze medals each and Mauritius completed the medals table with 1 bronze, even as Mozambique failed to win any medal.
