National Para Games: President Tinubu Lauds Para Athletes’ “Enduring Nigerian Fighting Spirit”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded Nigeria’s para athletes as the ‘true epitome of the enduring Nigerian fighting spirit’. He made declaration while officially opening the 3rd National Para Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Saturday.

The President, represented by Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), commended the athletes for their “determination and resilience despite their challenges,” labelling them “Nigeria’s true sporting heroes.”

“You guys hold a special place in my heart for all you have achieved for Nigeria at international competitions. Oftentimes you guys go beyond limitations and obvious challenges to bring back laurels to this country either at the African Games, Commonwealth Games and the Olympics Games.”

President Tinubu assured participants that his administration, under the “Renewed Hope” mandate, would “continue to prioritise the welfare and growth of Para sports like never before.”

Mallam Shehu Dikko, alongside NSC Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade, urged athletes to maintain discipline and sportsmanship. Dikko stated the competition aligns with the “Renewed Hope Initiative for the Nigerian sports economy (the RHINSE agenda)” to ensure regular domestic competitions for determined athletes. Hon. Olopade affirmed the Commission’s commitment to enhancing para sports standards through its Grassroots and Para sports department.

The vibrant opening ceremony featured a colourful march past by participating states and cultural displays symbolising Nigeria’s “unity in diversity,” alongside performances by the Nigerian Military.

A total of 2,597 para athletes from 31 states and the FCT are competing in 15 para sports, including Para Athletics, Para Cycling, Para Powerlifting, Amputee Football, and Wheelchair Basketball.