Brazil and India delivered strong showings at the inaugural Abia Para Badminton International tournament, edging hosts Nigeria into fourth place on the final medals table.
Brazil topped the standings with seven gold, three silver, and five bronze medals, followed by India at the second with six gold, five silver, and 14 bronze.
Peru followed closely to clinch the third spot with six gold, three silver, and two bronze.
Nigeria finished the championship with three gold, four silver, and nine bronze medals at the closing ceremony held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia.
A total of 114 athletes from 13 countries competed across 19 events during the week-long Abia Para Badminton International championship, with participating nations including Egypt, Tunisia, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, DR Congo, Mauritius, and Mozambique.
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Speaking at the closing ceremony, Abia State Governor Alex Otti announced that the state would host the Abia Para Badminton International tournament again next year. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusion and empowerment for people with disabilities.
“For us in Abia, our mantra is inclusion, and that’s one of the reasons we offered to host you,” Otti said.
“Even our public transport system, which we are putting together, provides for those in wheelchairs to have the same comfort that able people enjoy.”
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A cash award of $50,000 was announced for the 144 athletes from 13 participating countries.
Jeff Shingoli, CEO and representative of the Badminton World Federation, expressed his delight on Abia State and Nigeria for their commitment to inclusivity and sports development.
“Abia State and indeed Nigeria have shown outstanding commitment by welcoming the world’s best. This environment has been created to ensure the dreams of our para-badminton athletes thrive,” he said.
The competition will be immediately followed by the All Africa Para Badminton Championship, scheduled for October 7 to 12 at the same venue in Umuahia.
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