Nigeria stamped its authority as the continental powerhouse in para badminton as the Africa Para Badminton Championships 2025 came to a thrilling close on October 12, 2025, in Umuahia, Abia State. Team Nigeria dominated the tournament, claiming an impressive 36 medals — 10 gold, 13 silver, and 13 bronze — in what will be remembered as a landmark moment for the sport in Africa.
From the opening day to the final match, Nigerian athletes showcased exceptional skill, resilience, and teamwork, leaving other nations trailing behind. Kenya finished a distant second with 11 medals, while Egypt came third with eight. The outstanding performance solidified Nigeria’s growing reputation in para badminton and highlighted Abia State’s emergence as a hub for inclusive sports development.
Nigeria’s gold medalists included Chigozie Jeremiah Nnanna, Mariam Eniola Bolaji, Chukwuebuka Sunday Eze, Munkwoba Tala Goman, Gift Ijeoma Chukwuemeka, Mary Mabwat Nathan, and Chinyere Lucky Okoro, alongside the dynamic mixed doubles pair of Nnanna and Bolaji, who captivated fans with their precision and teamwork.
The most electrifying moment of the tournament came when Abia-born star Gift Ijeoma Chukwuemeka defeated Africa’s top-ranked player, Shaimaa Samy Abdellatif of Egypt, in a gripping three-set final that brought the crowd to its feet. Her victory sealed Nigeria’s dominance and sent the arena into jubilation.
Representing the Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti (OFR), the Honourable Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Nwadinma Ananaba, commended the athletes for their courage, excellence, and sportsmanship. In recognition of exemplary service, two outstanding volunteers also received $100 cash awards each.
As the curtains fell, Umuahia beamed with pride. The championship not only celebrated athletic excellence but also stood as a testament to unity, perseverance, and the unstoppable spirit of inclusion in Nigerian sports.
Join Inclusive News Network WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.