By Micheal Obasi
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reiterated its commitment to the development of para sports in Nigeria as the 3rd National Para Games commences later in March, bringing together thousands of exceptional athletes from across the federation in a celebration of resilience, excellence and national unity.
Para athletes have consistently been among Nigeria’s most successful sporting ambassadors on the world stage. From the Paralympic Games to the Commonwealth Games, Team Nigeria’s para contingent has delivered historic medal hauls, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a global powerhouse in para athletics, powerlifting, table tennis, wheelchair basketball and other disciplines.
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized that para sports remain a central pillar of the Commission’s strategic vision for Nigerian sports.
“Our love and commitment to para sports cannot be undermined. Para athletes have brought immense pride to this country, winning medals at the Paralympics and Commonwealth Games and consistently placing Nigeria on the global podium. As a Commission, we will continue to give equal focus, funding attention and equal developmental support to para sports alongside every other sporting discipline.”
Hon. Olopade, who previously served as President of Wheelchair Basketball in Nigeria, noted that his longstanding relationship with para athletes gives him a deep appreciation of their sacrifices and potential.
“Having served in wheelchair basketball administration, I understand firsthand the structure, dedication and resilience that define our para athletes. They are disciplined, determined and patriotic. When given the right support system, they always deliver results for Nigeria.”
“Events like this are critical to discovering the next generation of champions. The medals we celebrate at the Paralympics and Commonwealth Games do not happen by chance. They begin from structured grassroots competitions like the National Para Games. We are building a sustainable pipeline of talent that will continue to make Nigeria proud for years to come.”
The Director General reaffirmed that under the leadership of the Commission, no athlete will be marginalized on the basis of disability, and that inclusivity remains a core principle of the NSC’s operational philosophy.
“Equal focus is not just a slogan for us. It is a policy direction. Every Nigerian athlete deserves opportunity, dignity and the platform to excel. Our para athletes have proven time and again that ability is not defined by physical limitation but by strength of character and preparation.”
The 3rd National Para Games also aligns with the Commission’s broader mandate to expand sports participation nationwide, deepen grassroots engagement, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in international competitions.
