Para-Sports was approved by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation as a department in the Sports Ministry.
By Uzor Odigbo
Plans has been concluded for the hosting of the Maiden edition of the National Para-Sports Festival in Abuja from April 9-15, 2022.
Sports Minister, Mr. Sunday Dare who disclosed this on Monday stated that the maiden edition of the Para-Sports Games is aimed at giving People Living With Disability (PLWD) in sports a sense of belonging and opportunity to exhibit all their potentials.
In a press statement signed by Manga Mohammed, director of press and PR stated that it is in line with the present administration’s policy of inclusion in ensuring that Para-Sports are given the same opportunity as their able bodied counterparts that the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, approved the establishment of the National Sports Festival and Para-Sports Department.
According to him, “this will facilitate the development of Para-Sports in Nigeria, give room for more Para-Sports to thrive, give opportunity for young Athletes to exhibit their talents as well as explore other Para-Sports that have not had the opportunity to feature in major sporting events for possible medal haul during tournaments.”
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He explained that Para-Sports have produced the highest number of medals in the Paralympic Games for the Country since Nigeria started participating in the Games.
Stating further that, “this has positively portrayed Nigeria’s image in the global stage and also made her a household name when it comes to sports like Para-Powerlifting”
Fifteen Para-Sports are expected to participate in the median edition of the Festival, which includes: Para-Powerlifting, Para-Athletics, Para-Table Tennis, Deaf Sports, Para-Soccer, Wheel Chair Tennis, Para-Badminton, Para-Canoe, Sitting Volleyball, Wheel Chair B/Ball, Amputee Football, Para-Swimming, Para-Taekwondo, and Para-Shooting.