The curtains have fallen on the All African Para Badminton Championships 2025, hosted by Nigeria in Umuahia, with Team Nigeria emerging overall champions after clinching 36 medals, including 10 gold, 13 silver, and 13 bronze.
The week-long continental tournament, held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, drew participants from 12 African countries competing in 19 events.
Declaring the championship closed on Sunday, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, described the event as “a celebration of resilience, inclusion, and unity,” noting that the tournament showcased Africa’s diversity and strength through sports.
Represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, Governor Otti commended the participating nations — Benin Republic, Egypt, Cameroon, Mauritius, Mozambique, Tanzania, Rwanda, DR Congo, Kenya, Burkina Faso, and others — for their enthusiasm and sportsmanship.
“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 for years to come,” Otti stated.
The Governor further lauded the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA) for their unwavering partnership and professionalism, noting that the success of the event has strengthened friendship and unity across borders.
He gave special commendation to the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), its board, the local organising committee, subcommittees, volunteers, and support staff for their tireless efforts.
“To our dear athletes, your performance has lifted our spirits and reminded us why sports remain one of humanity’s finest gifts. You all return home not only with medals, but with memories of courage and character,” he added.
Governor Otti expressed readiness to host the championship again next year, describing the 2025 experience as “a priceless classroom” for Abia and Nigeria.
“We have learned, improved, and been inspired. Let me assure you that Abia will bid to host again, and when we do, we will offer an experience that will far surpass this pioneer effort,” he assured.
“As you depart, may you carry with you the warmth, friendship, and hospitality of Umuahia. Abia welcomes the world, and the world will always be welcome in Abia.”
In his remarks, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, expressed joy at the successful completion of the tournament, describing it as a showcase of courage, skill, and determination.
“The athletes have not only competed with excellence but have inspired us with their resilience and sportsmanship,”
Orbih said.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to Governor Otti, the government and people of Abia State, partners, sponsors, and the organising committee for their immense contributions, while acknowledging the continued support of the BWF and BCA.
Also speaking, the Abia State Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, said hosting the championship has placed Abia on the global sports map, adding that Governor Otti has given express approval for the state to host the next edition.
He commended the athletes, coaches, and organisers for their dedication and professionalism.
The final medal standings showed Kenya in second place with 11 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, 5 bronze), while Egypt finished third with 8 medals (3 gold, 1 silver, 4 bronze). Benin Republic came fourth with 1 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze, followed by DR Congo in fifth position with 1 gold and 2 bronze.
Tunisia placed sixth with 1 silver and 1 bronze, while Cameroon followed with 6 bronze medals. Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and Rwanda each won 2 bronze medals, Mauritius secured 1 bronze, and Mozambique ended without a medal.
The event followed closely after the First Abia Para Badminton International Tournament, where Nigeria placed fourth with 3 gold, 4 silver, and 9 bronze medals from 114 participants representing 14 countries.
Among the notable Nigerian winners was Abia’s Jeremiah Nnanna, who clinched gold, while Eniola Bolaji triumphed in the Women’s Singles SL3 by defeating Cameroon’s Danyele Mouafo, and Mary Nathan won gold in the Women’s Singles WH1, overcoming Brazil’s Juscileia Silva.
Governor Otti, who also declared that tournament closed, announced cash rewards for all 14 Nigerian athletes who participated, reiterating his administration’s commitment to inclusivity through sports.
“For us in Abia, our mantra is inclusion — and that is one of the reasons we offered to host you,” the Governor affirmed.
With the successful hosting of two major international para badminton events in succession, Abia State has firmly positioned itself as a rising hub for adaptive sports development in Africa, combining excellence, hospitality, and a renewed vision for inclusivity.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State.
October 14, 2025.
