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President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN), Mr. Sunday Odebode, has expressed confidence that the maiden version of the West Africa Para Video games will function a significant platform for locating the following era of world-class Para-athletes throughout the sub-region.
Talking in Abeokuta, the venue of the occasion, Odebode described the Video games as a vital step in strengthening the expertise pipeline for future worldwide competitions.
“That’s the reason we should try to make sure this primary version holds. We are going to proceed to enhance till we get it proper. Nigeria is doing nicely, however we should preserve creating and discovering new Para-athletes,” he stated.
Odebode acknowledged that West African nations stay “a bit behind” in Para sports activities improvement however insisted that the area has the potential to supply international stars with correct funding and sustained dedication.
He counseled Ogun State for accepting to host the inaugural Video games in Abeokuta regardless of notable logistical and organisational challenges.
He additionally praised the Nationwide Sports activities Fee led by Shehu Dikko, Director-Normal Bukola Olopade, and the Africa Paralympic Committee for supporting Nigeria to safe the internet hosting rights.
Odebode additional applauded the management of the Africa Paralympic Committee below Mwale Nsio Oduko and Director-Normal Bukola Olopade — whom he described as “the folks’s director” — for his or her resolve in guaranteeing the long-awaited Video games lastly commenced after a number of postponements.
Highlighting Nigeria’s sturdy document in Para sports activities, he recalled the nation’s latest international feats, significantly in powerlifting.
“Folks residing with disabilities have made Nigeria proud. Lately, Nigeria completed second out of 74 nations in world powerlifting. These accomplishments present why we should proceed to put money into creating Para-athletes throughout West Africa,” he famous.
Greater than 700 athletes from throughout the sub-region have already arrived in Abeokuta for the historic competitors.
The first West Africa Para Video games is predicted to deepen regional unity, promote inclusion, and lift the aggressive normal of Para sports activities within the area.
The Video games kicked off on Friday and can run till Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
