The city of Enugu is agog as the 2025 Bet9ja Southeast Badminton Championship officially serves off at the indoor sports hall of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. The annual regional tournament, powered by Bet9ja Foundation, brings together players from the five eastern states for three days of thrilling action from yesterday to Saturday.

Now in its third consecutive year since debuting in 2022, the championship continues to grow as a key platform for talent discovery and sports development in the Southeast. The tournament features senior men’s and women’s categories, as well as a veterans’ class, further expanding its reach and competitiveness.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Adaobi Cuomo, Vice Chairman of the Bet9ja Foundation, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing grassroots sports across Nigeria.

“We are committed to this as it is part of our cardinal programmes,” she said. “The Bet9ja Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of Nigerians across the country through initiatives that address the unique needs of diverse communities. Sports development is a core pillar of our mission.”

She added that the championship is one of many projects undertaken by the Foundation to provide access to quality healthcare, support education, drive community development, and empower young people.

In her remarks, Yetunde Osunnuga, Bet9ja’s Agents Liaison Officer, highlighted the Foundation’s national footprint.

“At the moment, the Foundation has 160 projects across more than 31 states, impacting 150 communities with an investment exceeding ₦587 million,” she disclosed.

The Bet9ja Southeast Badminton Championship is already producing remarkable outcomes. One standout is Jeremiah Chigozie, a physically challenged athlete who polished his skills at the second edition of the championship. His rise culminated in a historic appearance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where he defeated Germany’s Marcel Adam in straight sets of 21–12, 21–15 in a 28-minute match — making him the first Nigerian male badminton player to compete at the global event.

Chigozie returns for this fourth edition, joining a list of top stars to watch. Also returning are women’s singles champions from previous editions — Anambra’s Jovita Anakwe and Queen Chibuzor, who now represent Abia State — both competing with renewed vigour.

The Bet9ja Foundation continues to strengthen its footprint in sports development, and this championship remains a beacon of opportunity and excellence for athletes across the Southeast.