Team Nigeria has made history. They won the inaugural West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta. This marks a new era for Para sports in the region.

The six-day event took place in Ogun State. It concluded on Wednesday night. Nigeria topped the medals table convincingly. Our team secured an impressive 59 gold, 39 silver, and 31 bronze medals. They finished well ahead of all other competitors.

Benin Republic came in second. They earned four gold, four silver, and 14 bronze medals. Ghana finished third. Their tally included three gold, 15 silver, and 21 bronze. Cameroon and Ivory Coast secured fourth and fifth places, respectively.

Nigeria’s last gold medal was special. It came from the Amputee football event. The team defeated Liberia 1-0. This victory happened during the closing ceremony. It capped a week of thrilling performances. Nigerian athletes captivated audiences across various sports.

Officials Applaud Landmark Achievement

Mallam Shehu Dikko is the Chairman of the National Sports Commission. He praised all participants. Dikko called their contributions a landmark for Para athletics.

“This event makes history,” Dikko stated. “Over 400 Para athletes participated. They came from across West Africa. These athletes are the true heroes of African Sports.” He also commended Ogun State. The state supported the Games significantly. This aligns with the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy.

Bukola Olopade is the Director General of the NSC. He called Team Nigeria’s performances heroic. Olopade highlighted the Games’ wider impact. They significantly benefited disability sports.

“The NSC is very proud,” Olopade shared. “These Games boost Para Sports’ visibility. They also offer renewed hope to people with disabilities.” He assured further commitment. The Commission plans to host more international Para competitions. This will further advance Para Sports’ growth. It builds on the success of these Games.

Sunday Odebode heads the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria. He thanked President Bola Tinubu. Tinubu backed inclusion through the National Sports Commission.

Odebode praised the leadership. “This historic competition was possible due to Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon Bukola Olopade,” he said. “They are the best for Para sports in Nigeria.”

He also thanked the Local Organising Committee. Victor Achakpo led this committee. They ensured the Games ran smoothly. The event showcased West African Para talent.