22/08/2026
Abia 2026 National Open Para-Powerlifting Championship Ends with 51 Medals Awarded
The inaugural National Open Para-Powerlifting Championship, Abia 2026, has ended in Umuahia after athletes from across the country competed for honours in a highly competitive championship.
A total of 51 medals were awarded, comprising 18 gold, 17 silver and 16 bronze medals, reflecting the level of competition among participating states.
Edo State emerged top of the medal standings with six gold, two silver and three bronze medals. Enugu followed with four gold medals, while Abia State secured two gold, two silver and two bronze medals.
Delta State recorded two gold, two silver and one bronze medal, while Plateau won one gold, three silver and three bronze medals. Oyo and Lagos each secured one gold, two silver and one bronze medal, while Kano recorded one gold, one silver and one bronze.
Osun won one silver and one bronze medal, while Ogun and Rivers secured one silver medal each. Imo recorded two bronze medals, with Kwara and Katsina winning one bronze medal apiece.
Declaring the championship closed on behalf of the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, the Secretary to the Council, Comrade Jerry Basil, commended the Governor, Dr Alex Otti, OFR, for supporting another major sporting event in the state.
He also praised the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, for his role in driving the revitalisation of sports in Abia, while commending the athletes and officials for their discipline and conduct throughout the competition.
Basil reiterated the commitment of the Abia State Government to the continued development of sports and youth, as well as creating platforms for athletes to compete, develop and excel at the national and international levels.
The successful staging of the championship further underscores Abia's growing role as a host for national sporting events and its commitment to promoting para-sports and providing opportunities for athletes with disabilities to thrive..