Taraba Born Badminton Player To Participate in All-Africa Championship
By Echo Express
Taraba state-born badminton sensation, Blessing Isaac, has earned a place on Nigeria’s team for the All-Africa Senior Badminton Championship, scheduled to hold in February 2026 in Botswana.
Blessing Isaac, who hails from Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, has continued to announce herself as one of the country’s brightest badminton prospects through outstanding performances at competitions within and outside the state.
Her rise to national prominence was further cemented in 2025, when she clinched a gold medal at the National Universities Games (NUGA) in Jos, Plateau State, a feat that strengthened her case for national selection.
Following her selection, the athlete has now been invited to the national camping programme ahead of the continental championship, where she will compete against top badminton players from across Africa.
Speaking while sending her off, the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Sports Commission, Mr. George Haruna Shitta, commended Isaac for her exceptional performance and discipline in the sport.
He assured her of the state government’s continued support, noting that Taraba is proud of her achievements and committed to nurturing young talents in sports.
As a show of support, the Sports Commission presented Isaac with a cash gift and branded sports uniforms, describing the gesture as part of its resolve to deepen sports development in the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Taraba Veterans Badminton Club, Mr. Chindo Audu, urged the athlete to remain dedicated, focused and committed as she represents both the state and the nation.
“We are sending you out to represent us. Please do your very best. Go with the mindset that if one person will make it, you will be that person. If it is two, you will be one of them. With that mindset, I believe God will grant you victory,” Audu said.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator of NG-Cares, Mr. Polycarp Stephen Adi, appreciated the Taraba State Government for its sustained support for sports development, noting that such commitment has continued to yield positive results.
He advised Isaac to stay focused and goal-oriented, stressing that determination and discipline would give her the edge to succeed at the continental level.
Expressing her excitement, Blessing Isaac said she began playing badminton between 2014 and 2015 and has grown steadily through mentorship from her coach and senior players.
She thanked the Taraba State Sports Commission for the support and pledged to make the state proud at the African stage.
“By God’s grace, you should expect that I will win, and I will make my state proud,” she said.
