Abia Para Badminton Championship Gets Boost from Fundraising Dinner

The fundraising dinner for the First Abia Para Badminton International and the All African Para Badminton Championship was a resounding success, with Stakeholders, Athletes, and Sports Enthusiasts coming together to support this landmark event.

Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, Ikechukwu Emetu, set the tone for the evening, describing the Championships as “a defining moment in Abia’s history and a celebration of inclusion and resilience.”

Emetu commended Governor Alex Otti’s administration for its commitment to sports development and youth empowerment, highlighting its focus on inclusive sports policies.

On his part, Mr. Kingsley Anosike, Chairman of the Dinner Organizing Committee, who doubles as the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning highlighted the economic benefits of hosting the championships in Abia State.

He noted that the event would stimulate growth in tourism, hospitality, and transport, while inspiring young people and promoting social inclusion.

Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development commended Governor Otti for providing all necessary logistics, including a wheelchair-enabled bus, to facilitate athlete transportation during the championships.

He lauded the Badminton Federation of Nigeria for its technical support and partnership, expressing optimism that the events would inspire a new generation of athletes.

Mr. Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, lauded Governor Otti’s commitment to promoting badminton, citing his sponsorship of Abia’s contingent to the World Para Badminton Championships.

He assured the federation’s full support for the championships, emphasizing the significance of this event for Nigerian and African badminton.

Mr. Samuel Ekeoma, National Coordinator of Para Badminton and 2nd Vice President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, provided an overview of Abia’s badminton journey, emphasizing the state’s potential on the continental stage.

He called on stakeholders to support the championships, stressing that “talent knows no physical limitation” and every athlete deserves a chance to compete and excel.

The evening featured the unveiling of the competition’s mascots and logo, symbolizing the spirit of the championships and Abia’s hospitality.

The Chairman of the Dinner Organizing Committee concluded the evening with a heartfelt appeal for donations, urging guests to support the championships and contribute to the success of Abia’s sports development initiatives.