3rd National Para Games: Tinubu renews welfare pledge to Nigerian athletes
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Nigerian para-athletes as the true epitome of the enduring Nigerian fighting spirit, crediting them for the country’s continuous success at the global stage. The
- By Our Reporters
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Nigerian para-athletes as the true epitome of the enduring Nigerian fighting spirit, crediting them for the country's continuous success at the global stage.
The President made the remarks on Saturday when he officially declared open the 3rd National Para Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Tinubu, represented by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, commended the para-athletes for their determination and resilience, describing them as Nigeria's true sporting heroes.
"You hold a special place in my heart for all you have achieved for Nigeria at international competitions," he said. "Time and again, you go beyond limitations and obvious challenges to bring back laurels to this country at the African Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympic Games.
"I want to assure all of you that this administration, under the Renewed Hope mandate, will continue to prioritise the welfare and growth of para-sports like never before, so that you will be proud to keep representing your fatherland with dignity and pride.
"I welcome you all to this 3rd National Para Games in Abuja and be assured that the National Sports Commission has put every modality in place to make this competition a successful and memorable one for you all."
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Dikko said the competition was organised in line with the Renewed Hope Initiative for the Nigerian Sports Economy (RHINSE agenda), to ensure that Nigeria's determined athletes have access to regular domestic competitions.
NSC Director General Bukola Olapade assured that the Commission, through its Department of Grassroots and Para Sports, will continue to develop initiatives to improve the standard and quality of para-sports in the country. Both officials also charged the para-athletes to remain disciplined and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship.
The opening ceremony featured a colourful march past by participating states in their unique kits, cultural displays representing the country's unity in diversity, and performances by the Nigerian Military.
A total of 2,597 para-athletes from 31 states, including the FCT, are competing across 15 para-sports: Para Athletics, Para Cycling, Para Karate, Para Taekwondo, Para Powerlifting, Para Badminton, Para Table Tennis, Amputee Football, Para Volleyball, Para Swimming, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Tennis, Para Shooting, Para Canoeing, and Para Soccer.
