FIC Report (Abia State) – The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Chioma Otti (OFR), has urged the State Executives of Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN)to continue to scout for talent, mentor young players and collaborate with local clubs to help project the state not only for its enterprise but for athletic excellence.
The Governor, Dr. Alex Otti who was represented by his Deputy Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu FNSE stated this during the inauguration of the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) and (Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the proposed 1st Abia state Para Badminton International Championship holding from the thirtieth of September to the sixteenth of October, 2025, in Umuahia, the state capital.
The Deputy Governor, Chief Ikechukwu Emetu, who doubles as the Chairman, Main Organizing Committee, while speaking on behalf of the Governor, said that Badminton as a sport has helped produce athletes of National repute, create safe spaces for youths engagement, create positive lifestyle choices among others.
Gov Otti commended members of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) for their unwavering commitment in nurturing the growth of Badminton across the nation.
He also charged the Badminton Federation of Nigeria to work in harmony, prioritize grassroots development, organize training programmes for coaches, provide better facilities to prepare young athletes to compete both locally and internationally.
Earlier in her speech, the wife of the Governor and also the Chairman, Local Organizing Committee, Mrs Priscilla Otti represented by the Commissioner for poverty alleviation and vulnerable persons, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, assured the members of the her Excellency’s support and encouraged the athletes especially the females to continue to put in their best in every sporting event.
Also, the President, Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Orbih, and the National Coordinator, Para Badminton, Mr. Ekeoma Samuel, while highlighting the achievements of Badminton in the country, thanked the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti and his team for projecting the state positively in the world of sports.
The event attracted the presence of top government officials including, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba (phD), Commissioner for sports and Youth Development, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, members of Badminton/ Para Badminton Association of Nigeria among others.
Signed
Amah Ijeoma
Deputy Governor’s Office
02/05/2025
