In a bold call to action, the President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Mr. Samson Deen, has urged African leaders to rethink the continent’s approach to disability sports by investing in local opportunities and regional cooperation.
His remarks came during an official visit to Abeokuta, Ogun State, ahead of the inaugural West Africa Para Games, scheduled for September 2025.
The Games, a historic first for the ECOWAS region, will bring together hundreds of para-athletes and officials from across West Africa, marking a significant step toward greater inclusivity in sports.
As part of his visit, Mr. Deen conducted an inspection tour of the M.K.O. Abiola Sports Arena, assessing key facilities including the athletics oval, football pitch, swimming pool, tennis courts, and basketball courts.
His visit aimed not only to gauge preparedness but also to endorse the transformational potential of the Games for para-sports in Africa.
Speaking at the venue, Deen emphasized the urgency of shifting focus from expensive and often exclusionary overseas competitions to African-hosted events that offer greater access and long-term value:
“We must move away from visa queues and costly trips abroad. Africa has the potential to host Africa. It’s more affordable, familiar, and empowering. Rather than being denied at foreign embassies, we should be giving athletes opportunities right here at home.”
Mr. Deen held discussions with Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, Commissioner for Sports in Ogun State, where they explored plans for improving accessibility, logistics, and sustainability.
He encouraged state authorities to view the event not as a one-off tournament, but as the foundation for a new era in inclusive sports development.
Following the facility inspection, the AfPC President officially announced the organization’s full endorsement of the Games, calling it a “continental turning point” for para-sports in Africa.
“This is more than a competition. It’s a message ; that Africa recognizes ability beyond disability. Ogun State now has a chance to lead a generation toward equity and inclusion.”
Mr. Deen used the occasion to extend his advocacy to the private sector, urging African business leaders and investors to view disability sports as a platform for social innovation and youth empowerment:
“When African companies invest in disability sports, they invest in hope, inclusion, and the future. This is not charity ; it’s vision.”
Beyond the medals and matches, the West Africa Para Games aims to drive policy change, boost funding, and reframe public perceptions of persons with disabilities.
With coordinated efforts from national Paralympic committees, local governments, and development agencies, the Games are expected to spark lasting reforms in infrastructure, education, and advocacy.
Preparations are being finalized with strong collaboration between the AfPC, the Government of Ogun State, and NPC Nigeria, setting the stage for what promises to be a landmark event in African sports history.
Dignitaries Present During the Visit Included:
- Mr. Sunday Odebode, President, National Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (NPC Nigeria)
- Mr. Suleiman Issah, Secretary-General, NPC Nigeria
- Mr. Ignatius Elletey, Head of Secretariat/Administration, AfPC
- Mr. Foster Kwarteng, Head of Protocol Services, AfPC
- Sib Ali, Strategic Operations, AfPC
