PCN President Applauds NSC For Enhanced Funding Of Para-Sports

The Para-Olympics Committee of Nigeria (PCN) has attributed the recent success of Team Nigeria at the Para Grand Prix in Tunisia to the support from the National Sports Commission (NSC) for the country’s Para-sports initiatives.

PCN President Sunday Odebode, who expressed pride in the performance of Nigeria’s Para-athletes in Tunisia, where the nation secured a commendable second place overall among 42 participating countries, made the remarks, saying: “The NSC, under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon Bukola Olopade, has elevated the support provided to individuals living with disabilities to unprecedented levels.”

He continued, “We have never experienced such robust backing in the past. The Commission is not only offering financial assistance but is also providing crucial technical support to ensure our success in both international and domestic competitions.”

The PCN President highlighted the athletes’ achievements in Tunisia, saying, “To whom much is given, much is expected, and our athletes did not disappoint. They made the country proud with their outstanding performances. Notably, due to their success in Tunisia, Nigeria has secured qualification for the World Championship in India later this year, alongside spots for the Commonwealth Games and the Los Angeles Olympic Games.”

Odebode further commended the NSC for the seamless funding of its programmes and training camps, which are aimed at achieving podium finishes in both next year’s Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

“The Commission has streamlined the execution of our various programmes thanks to the attention and funding we are currently receiving. For instance, the Para-lifters have just concluded their trials, resulting in the discovery of 10 new athletes who will now represent Nigeria at the World Tournament in Santiago, Chile.”

He added, “The Para-athletes will commence their training camp this month, while our Wheelchair Basketball team is also preparing for the Commonwealth Games. Additionally, our Para-Swimmers will be opening their camp this month. All of these initiatives would not have been possible without the NSC’s new funding approach.”

Team Nigeria concluded the championship with an impressive medal tally of 19, comprising 10 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze medals.