India’s global development committee member in the International Wheelchair Cricket Council (IWCC), Monu Shaik, has described Nigerians as ‘very good people,’ who are always ready to assist someone in need.
Shaik gave the verdict during an exclusive interview with Sports247 at the 1st West Africa Para-Games in Abeokuta, where he revealed that he was on a mission to introduce the values of wheelchair cricket to physically challenged athletes in Nigeria.
Though he disclosed that it was his first time in Nigeria, Shaik said he was impressed with everything he saw about the country and in the competition.
He added, “This is my first time in Nigeria, and I like it a lot being here. I’ve enjoyed my time here, and I loved what I saw from the athletes.
“The main motive of my coming here was to help countries like Nigeria look into wheelchair cricket as a big sport. It’s a global event that has various opportunities available to disabled athletes.”
He then charged Nigeria’s physically challenged athletes and people in general to step forward to learn about the technical and physiological values that can be gained from participating in the sport.
Shaik pointed out, “People can show their interest and come forward to give support to the sport. They can show action, not just sympathy.
“Let them get involved in how wheelchair cricket is played. They should start by just watching it and, if they don’t understand, ask the officials, who will then explain the game to them.”
He went on to speak about his experiences of life in Nigeria – regarding meals, drinks and people he interacted with – during his stay in Abeokuta, where para-athletes from several West African countries competed for medals.
Shaik revealed, “I’ve had only fried yam and some local drinks, all of which I really enjoyed. I also noticed that the people here are very friendly and good.
“They are always smiling and ready to greet me with friendly words. They are very helpful and made me feel that I’m in a very safe place. They made me feel that I’m not away from home.”
He concluded with words of encouragement and advice to para-athletes, who he said should never be deterred by their disability, but must always be determined to make a huge impression from anything they are involved in.
“Being a global representative, I see sports – whatever event it is – as a free medicine to make life better. That’s why I always say, irrespective of disability, you can still excel.
“When someone is in sports, you can feel the confidence and energy that flows through your body. It brings out the value of determination that is needed in every disabled person,” Shaik asserted.
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