Abeokuta set for maiden West African para games

Abeokuta is entering its final week of preparations ahead of the first-ever West African Para Games for zones A and B, with the National Sports Commission confirming that all operational plans are on track for the event scheduled from November 26 to December 4, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The competition will bring para athletes from across the region to Ogun State in what officials describe as a significant step for Nigeria’s growing influence in para sports development.

The commission said the event reflects the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to position Nigeria as a leading destination for major international competitions, in line with the renewed hope initiative for the country’s sports economy.

The programme is intended to strengthen infrastructure, improve participation and deepen global engagement in the sector.

Officials reported that accommodation, transportation, venue preparation, medical services, accreditation, media operations, security arrangements, volunteer mobilisation and classification facilities have all reached advanced stages.

The Local Organising Committee also said Abeokuta is ready to deliver a competition that will showcase sporting excellence and highlight the hospitality and culture of Ogun State.

The president of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Sunday Odebode, praised the coordination and commitment of the National Sports Commission and commended the quality of work completed to date.

He said the Games mark a new chapter for para sports in the region and expressed confidence that Nigeria will set a strong benchmark for future editions.

“These Games represent a new dawn for para sports in West Africa,” Odebode said.

Odebode added that the organisers are ready and the athletes are prepared for what he believes will be a historic opening day.

“The level of commitment shown by the NSC and the LOC gives us full confidence that Nigeria will set a benchmark for future editions. Our athletes are ready, the organisers are ready, and we look forward to a truly historic opening day.”

He said that the event will strengthen regional cooperation and create broader competitive opportunities for para athletes across Africa.