The chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, says the 3rd National Para Games is repositioning sports and promoting equality across all disciplines.

Mr Dikko, who stated this while declaring the games open on Saturday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, said the event aligns with the Federal Government’s vision for sports development.

The chairman, who spoke on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, described the games as a platform to reset and refocus Nigerian sports while ensuring equal opportunities for all athletes.

“Every sport is equal and should be given the opportunity to live its dreams,” he said.

He assured para athletes of sustained support, noting that the sector is receiving increased attention and encouragement under the current administration.

The chairman urged participants to view the games as a celebration of unity and shared humanity, rather than mere competition.

“It is not just about winning; it is about togetherness. By being here, you are already winners,” he said.

Mr Dikko commended para athletes for their consistent performances at international competitions, including the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and African Games, where they have won medals and brought pride to the country.

In his remarks, Habu Gumel, president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), described the Para Games as a significant platform for talent discovery ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Mr Gumel said the event would help identify athletes capable of representing Nigeria at future competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026.

He commended the organisers and the National Sports Commission for their efforts in developing sports in the country.

Earlier, the chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Opara Thecla, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of the games in advancing para sports development.

Ms Opara, who also serves as director, National Sports Festival and Para Sports, and General Coordinator of the games, noted that the previous edition held in December 2023 helped draw attention to the needs of para athletes.

She recalled that Nigeria’s contingent to the Paralympic Games Paris 2024 won seven medals, underscoring the potential of para athletes when adequately supported.

“This shows that we are on course to give our athletes the platform to excel and achieve their aspirations,” she said.

She commended the leadership of the NSC for its commitment to ensuring the successful hosting of the games and urged athletes to compete freely and enjoy the event.

The games have attracted participants from across the country and are expected to serve as a platform for talent discovery and preparation for future international competitions.

The games, which began on Thursday and will end on April 3, is Nigeria’s flagship para-sport event, bringing together over 3,000 athletes from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Athletes at the games will compete in 15 different sports in the one-week-long event. 

(NAN)