By Bilal Ahmed
Nigeria’s para badminton team achieved a significant milestone at the 2026 Uganda Para Badminton International Championship, securing a total of 14 medals. The impressive haul, which included nine gold and five silver medals, was earned during the competition held from July 7 to July 12, 2026. This performance further solidifies the nation’s reputation as a prominent force in para badminton across Africa.
The athletes demonstrated exceptional skill across various categories. In the women’s events, Lyka Brown was a standout performer, claiming a gold medal in the WH1 Women’s Singles. She then partnered with Chukwuemeka Ijeoma Gift to secure another gold medal in the WH1 & WH2 Women’s Doubles. Chukwuemeka Ijeoma Gift also achieved individual success, winning gold in the WH2 Women’s Singles, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s medal count.
Men’s Wheelchair and Standing Categories
The men’s wheelchair events also saw strong performances from the Nigerian contingent. Emmanuel Ifeanacho Ohaeri earned a gold medal in the WH2 Men’s Singles. He later teamed up with Lyka Brown to secure another gold in the WH1 & WH2 Mixed Doubles. Additionally, Ohaeri partnered with Ekeoma Samuel to win a silver medal in the WH1 & WH2 Men’s Doubles. Ekeoma Samuel also individually claimed a silver medal in the WH1 Men’s Singles and, alongside Chukwuemeka Ijeoma Gift, secured another silver medal in the WH1 & WH2 Mixed Doubles.
Nigeria’s dominance extended into the standing categories. Obinna Precious Nwosu secured a gold medal in the SL3 Men’s Singles, while Eze Sunday Chukwuebuka earned a silver medal in the same event. Nnanna Jeremiah Chigozie was another gold medalist, winning the SL4 Men’s Singles. He then collaborated with Eze Sunday Chukwuebuka to clinch a gold medal in the SL3 & SU5 Men’s Doubles.
In the SU5 category, Eneojo Elijah Agada won a gold medal in the singles event. He later partnered with Obinna Precious Nwosu to secure a silver medal in the SL3–SU5 Men’s Doubles. The team’s overall performance highlights the depth of talent within Nigeria’s para badminton program.
Federation Praises Athletes and Sponsors
Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, expressed his satisfaction with the athletes’ performance. He commended them for their achievements, noting that they have once again brought pride to the nation on the international stage. Orbih emphasised that the current board is committed to providing continuous support to the para athletes, ensuring they receive all necessary assistance to excel.
The federation’s primary objective is to prepare for the Paralympic Games. Orbih stated the goal is to qualify as many athletes as possible, aiming to make a significant impact, building on the success of Eniola Bolaji. This focus underscores the long-term vision for the development of para badminton in Nigeria.
Orbih also extended gratitude to the sponsors who made the team’s participation possible. He specifically thanked the Abia State Government for sponsoring six players, and the Bayelsa State Government, along with the Police College Badminton Club Lagos, for footing the bills of one player each. The federation is keen on strengthening these partnerships and forming new ones to further support the growth of para badminton in the country, ahead of future continental and global competitions.
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Source: thisdaylive.com
