Nigeria Wins 3 Gold as Para Badminton Championship Ends in Abia with Historic Success

Nigeria capped off the International Para Badminton Championship in Umuahia, Abia State, with an impressive medal haul of three gold, four silver, and nine bronze.

Abia’s Jeremiah Nnanna clinched gold, while Paralympic bronze medallist Eniola Bolaji triumphed in the women’s singles SL3, defeating Cameroon’s Danyele Mouafo. Another Nigerian, Mary Nathan, secured gold against Brazil’s Juscileia Silva in the women’s singles WH1.

Brazil topped the overall medal table with seven gold, three silver, and five bronze medals. India followed with six gold, five silver, and 14 bronze, while Peru finished third with six gold, three silver, and two bronze.

The historic event, the first para badminton tournament hosted on West African soil, featured 114 players from 13 nations across 19 events.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Governor Alex Otti approved the request to host the championship again in Abia next year, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusion. He also announced a $50,000 cash award for all 144 athletes who participated.

“For us in Abia, our mantra is inclusion… we have no excuse not to provide opportunities for people who are born with one little problem or challenge,” Otti said.

Jeff Shingoli, CEO and representative of the Badminton World Federation, commended Nigeria’s commitment: “Abia State and indeed Nigeria have shown outstanding commitment by welcoming the world’s best and of course, Africa’s best.”

The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, lauded the athletes and thanked Governor Otti for sponsoring the competition, emphasizing the spirit of unity and excellence fostered by the event.

The tournament ended with praise for Nigeria’s role in redefining possibilities and promoting inclusivity in sports.