More than 374 athletes from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa will gather in Umuahia for the inaugural Abia Para Badminton International Tournament and the All-African Para Badminton Championships, taking place from September 30 to October 12.
These two events, approved by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA), will be held at the newly renovated International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
The Commissioner for Sports and Social Development, Nwaobilor Ananaba, stated that Abia State is poised to become Africa’s center for para badminton.
“Given the level of preparation and the number of countries participating, these landmark championships will not only draw athletes but also hundreds of officials and stakeholders.
It will be a genuine celebration of global camaraderie and inclusivity,” he remarked.
Ananaba mentioned that the International Conference Centre has been upgraded to meet international standards, with pre-event activities already conducted to test the facilities and generate excitement.
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He also confirmed that thorough logistics are in place to accommodate international participants.
“Our protocol team is based in Lagos to assist athletes with connecting flights to Owerri.
“From there, wheelchair-accessible buses will transport them to Umuahia. Comfortable hotel accommodations and reliable transportation have been arranged,” he detailed.
Regarding safety and welfare, the commissioner emphasized collaborations with the Federal Medical Centre and Abia State Specialist Hospital for medical assistance, along with a mobile medical clinic at the event venue.
Trained volunteers, security personnel, and accessible transport will further ensure a seamless experience for both athletes and spectators.
The tournament will be officiated by South Africa’s Karin Bester as the referee, with Hong Kong’s Chau Yat Kwong acting as the deputy referee.
