The 3rd National Para Games concluded at the Velodrome, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, declaring the Games officially closed.
She was represented at the event by the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima.
Senator Tinubu praised the athletes for their courage, resilience, and determination. “I commend the athletes who participated from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
You have displayed courage, resilience, and grace. You are true heroes of our nation,” she said. She described the athletes as “determined sons and daughters of Nigeria who have chosen courage over fear, excellence over excuses and limitations.”
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, the First Lady called for continued efforts to build a society where persons living with disabilities are supported not only in sports but also in education, healthcare, employment, and leadership.
She tied this vision to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting the appointment of a Presidential aide on disability matters as a testament to the administration’s commitment.
She further commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko for organising a successful Games and for ongoing sports reforms.
Mallam Dikko, NSC Chairman, lauded the para-athletes for elevating Nigeria’s profile in global sports. “Our para-athletes deserve proper training, quality facilities, structured pathways, and a system that supports their talent and ambition,” he said, adding that the Commission is committed to strengthening athlete development, improving welfare, expanding opportunities, and ensuring para sports receive adequate attention and investment.
He emphasized inclusiveness as a core principle, aligned with President Tinubu’s directives. “Every Nigerian matters, every talent matters, and no one must be left behind,” he affirmed.
He also noted the marked improvement in standards compared to previous editions of the National Para Games and promised continued enhancement, beginning with the next National Sports Festival in Enugu.
Other dignitaries present reinforced the link between sports, education, and national development. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, praised the Games as a demonstration of shared prosperity.
Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, highlighted the role of sports in fostering national unity and complementing educational development.
The Director-General of NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, represented by Lekan Abari, applauded para-athletes for raising the standard of competition and setting benchmarks for future events.
The Games concluded with the presentation of a trophy to Enugu State, the overall winners, who topped the medal table with 40 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze medals. Bayelsa State came second with 25 gold, 30 silver, and 34 bronze; Edo third with 25 gold, 14 silver, and 12 bronze; Rivers fourth with 21 gold, 21 silver, and 17 bronze; and Lagos fifth with 20 gold, 23 silver, and 20 bronze.
The 3rd National Para Games showcased not only sporting excellence but also Nigeria’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and national unity through sports.