Team Enugu emerged as overall champions of the 3rd National Para Games, which came to a successful close on Friday at the velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
The week-long competition ended on a vibrant note, with a colourful closing ceremony attended by top government dignitaries, including Nana Kashim Shettima, who represented the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
Also present were Suwaiba Said Ahmad, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, and Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, among other notable personalities.
In her remarks, the First Lady, represented by Shettima, commended the athletes for their discipline, resilience, and determination throughout the competition, assuring them of the Federal Government’s continued support.
She reiterated that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to inclusive development, emphasizing that sports, particularly para sports, will continue to receive priority attention under the Renewed Hope agenda.
She also praised the leadership of the National Sports Commission, led by its chairman Shehu Dikko, for the successful organization of the Games and ongoing efforts to reposition Nigerian sports.
Speaking earlier, Dikko reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting para athletes, noting that they remain central to its programs and initiatives. He also expressed appreciation to the President for prioritizing sports development nationwide.
On the medals table, Enugu State finished top with an impressive haul of 40 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze medals. Bayelsa State placed second with 25 gold, 30 silver, and 34 bronze medals, while Edo State secured third position with 25 gold, 14 silver, and 12 bronze medals.
Rivers and Lagos States completed the top five, finishing fourth and fifth with 21 gold, 21 silver, and 17 bronze medals, and 20 gold, 23 silver, and 20 bronze medals respectively.
The successful staging of the Games once again highlighted the growing strength and potential of para sports in Nigeria, as athletes showcased remarkable talent and determination on the national stage.
The event concluded as a testament to the incredible spirit of Nigerian para athletes and the effectiveness of the National Sports Commission’s new direction. With Enugu taking home the ultimate prize, the focus now shifts toward sustaining this momentum for future international competitions. The 3rd National Para Games will be remembered as a milestone in the journey toward inclusive sporting excellence in the country.
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