ABUJA READY FOR 3RD NATIONAL PARA GAMES

By: Gyang Dakwo

Abuja will host more than 3,000 athletes later this month as the 3rd National Para Games holds from 26 March to 3 April, bringing together competitors from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory for nine days of competition and unity.

This was contained in a press statement issued by the National Sports Commission, which described the event as Nigeria’s largest and most prestigious para sport competition. Athletes will compete in 15 sports, and the Commission said the Games will celebrate resilience, excellence and inclusion.

According to the statement, the National Para Games has continued to provide a platform for talent discovery and national unity since its inception. The Commission added that the 2026 edition will surpass previous ones in scale, organisation and competitive intensity.

The statement further noted that all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have confirmed participation. It added that the National Youth Service Corps has made its Orientation Camp in Kubwa available as the official Games Village, where athletes and officials will be accommodated in a secure and supportive environment throughout the event.

Nigeria’s para-athletes have in recent years brought honour to the country on the global stage. At the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris, Team Nigeria won multiple medals and once again proved its strength in para sports. Folashade Oluwafemiayo claimed gold and set a world record in para powerlifting, while Onyinyechi Mark also won gold with a record-breaking performance.

These achievements underline the need to develop para sports from the grassroots. When young athletes with disabilities are discovered early and given proper training and support, they can rise to continental and global competitions and bring pride to the nation, and strong local competitions such as the National Para Games provide that foundation.