The city of Umuahia, Abia State, is set to make history as 14 countries have arrived for the first-ever International Para-Badminton Championship and the All-African Badminton Championship, scheduled to hold from September 30 to October 12, 2025.

Participating nations include Brazil, India, Peru, Cameroon, Benin Republic, Tunisia, Mauritius, Rwanda, Egypt, and Zimbabwe, among others. Over 150 international players and 60 officials are expected to compete in what promises to be a festival of talent, resilience, and global sportsmanship.

Speaking on Sunday, the Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Nwobilor Ananaba—represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Raymond Chima Ukwa—assured that the state is fully prepared. He revealed that top-class playing facilities, including professional-grade nets and mats, had been installed, while security and hospitality arrangements were in place to ensure a smooth experience.

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, also applauded Governor Alex Otti’s commitment, adding that Nigeria’s hosting role was a vote of confidence in the country’s ability to deliver on the international stage. Similarly, Badminton Confederation Africa CEO Jeff Shigoli and BWF International Classifier Dr. Ahmed Reda hailed the efforts, noting that Nigeria is only the third African nation to host para-badminton activities of this magnitude.

Opinion: Beyond the Shuttle—Abia’s Bold Statement to the World

This championship is more than just rackets and shuttlecocks; it’s a statement. Abia State, once not known as a hub for global sports, has opened its doors to the world, showing that Nigeria can host events that unite nations under the spirit of inclusivity and excellence.

The presence of athletes from South America, Asia, and across Africa speaks volumes about the global recognition of Nigeria’s role in para sports. More importantly, it shines a light on para-badminton, a discipline that doesn’t always get mainstream attention but embodies the resilience, courage, and determination that sport should celebrate.

Hosting this event is a reminder that sports can rewrite narratives—not just for athletes, but for host communities. For Abia, it’s an opportunity to inspire young talents, attract investment in sports infrastructure, and showcase hospitality on an international stage.

If well managed, this could be the start of a new era where Nigeria is not just a participant but a trusted host of world-class competitions. And in that, the biggest winners may well be the next generation of African athletes watching from the stands.