In a major step towards West Africa’s first sub-regional para-sporting event, the President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Mr. Samson Deen, completed a pivotal visit to Nigeria. His trip comes ahead of the inaugural West Africa Para Games, which will take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in September 2025.
Mr. Samson Deen’s visit signals AfPC’s commitment to growing inclusive sports in Africa. It also aims to drive political and financial support for disability sports across the continent. His focus was clear, Africa must invest in its own athletes and host world-class events on home soil.
While in Abeokuta, Mr. Samson Deen inspected the M.K.O. Abiola Sports Arena. He toured the athletics oval, football pitch, swimming pool, and courts for tennis and basketball. The inspection was crucial in assessing the state’s readiness to host para-athletes from across the ECOWAS region.
Speaking during his visit, Mr. Samson Deen urged African nations to stop relying on overseas tournaments. “Why fly thousands of miles and deny our athletes the warmth of home? Africa must become the stage where African athletes shine, not as guests abroad, but as champions in their own backyard.” – He said.
Mr. Samson Deen also held key talks with Ogun State’s Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka. They discussed accessibility, legacy planning, and the future impact of the Games. The meeting reinforced Ogun’s commitment to long-term inclusion in sports infrastructure.
The AfPC President officially endorsed the Games. He called it a “continental turning point” in how Africa values para-sports. “This is Africa’s declaration that ability has no limit, and disability is not inability,” he said.
Mr. Samson Deen urged business leaders to back this vision. “When African businesses invest in disability sports, they invest in hope, in unity, and in the power of human potential.” His rallying cry positioned the Games as more than a sporting event but rather a movement.
The Games are expected to spark new inclusion policies and regional cooperation. With full backing from AfPC, Ogun State, and NPC Nigeria, preparations are gaining momentum for what could become a defining moment in African sport.
