The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to developing para sports in Nigeria as the 3rd National Para Games get underway later this month, bringing together thousands of athletes from across the federation in a showcase of resilience, skill, and national pride.

Para athletes have long been among Nigeria’s most successful sporting ambassadors, earning medals at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and other global competitions.

Their achievements in disciplines such as athletics, powerlifting, table tennis, and wheelchair basketball have cemented the nation’s reputation as a powerhouse in para sports.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, highlighted the central role para sports play in the Commission’s long-term strategy for Nigerian athletics.

“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 developmental support to para sports alongside every other sporting discipline,” Olopade said.

A former President of Wheelchair Basketball in Nigeria, Olopade noted that his close work with para athletes gives him a deep appreciation of their dedication 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,” he said.

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Olopade emphasised that events like the National Para Games are critical to identifying and nurturing 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,” he said.

He also reaffirmed that the NSC’s policy ensures no athlete will be marginalized based on disability.

“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,” Olopade added.

The 3rd National Para Games, scheduled for later in March, also supports the Commission’s broader goals of expanding sports participation nationwide, strengthening grassroots programs, and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in international competitions.

The event is scheduled to kick off on March 26 to April 3, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

With this edition, the NSC aims not only to celebrate current achievements but also to build a lasting foundation for the country’s para sports future.