The Federal Government of Nigeria has concluded arrangement for the successful hosting of the Second Edition of the National Para-Sports Festival scheduled to take place between 8th – 16th of December, 2023 in Abuja.
The Hon Minister of Sports Development Senator John Owan Enoh, disclosed this on Wednesday in his office at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
He said the Second Edition of the Para-Sports Games is aimed at giving people with disability (PLWD) in sports a sense of belonging and opportunity to exhibit all potentials in them.
Sen Enoh explained that the cardinal objective of the Games is the promotion of keen and healthy competition amongst Para Athletes under an atmosphere of sportsmanship and friendly interaction.
According to him, this is with a view to enhancing and strengthening national unity, peace and stability in the country as well as in the identification of Para Athletes that could represent the country at international competitions.
“It is expected that attention will be focused on other Para Sports that have not had the opportunity of showcasing their talents, let alone participating in major sporting events either locally or internationally,” the Minister said.
Sen Enoh added that the creation of the Federal Ministry of Sports Development by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration was to drive the industry and cater for the growing needs of the teeming youth of all categories with no discrimination.
“Organising and hosting of the National Para-Sports Festival by the Ministry was based on the impressive performances of the athletes at various national and international competitions over the years,” he said.
Giving an expected number of athletes Enoh, said that thirty-six states of the Federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are expected to participate in this year’s competition with over three thousand (3000) athletes.
Truth Live News reports that Sen Enoh’s Ministry firmly believes that, with adequate attention and investment, Para- Athletes will not only enjoy new phase of life and livelihood but also contribute to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as enhance Nigeria’s chances of winning more medals at future International Competitions and Games.
He used the occasion to call on corporate bodies, all well-meaning Nigerians and relevant stakeholders to support the efforts of the government and invest in Para Sports Athletes.
The sports that will feature in the Second Edition of the Games include Para Powerlifting, Wheelchair Tennis, Para Badminton, Wheelchair Basketball, Para Athletics, Para Soccer, Para Canoe, Para Swimming, Para Shooting, Para Table Tennis, Sitting Volleyball, Amputee Football, Para Taekwondo and Para Karate.