Team Nigeria has made history by emerging overall champions at the maiden edition of the West Africa Para Games, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
After six days of thrilling action and inspiring performances, Nigeria reasserted its dominance as the continent’s top Para sports nation, clinching an astounding 59 gold, 39 silver, and 31 bronze medals. Benin Republic came a distant second with 4 gold, 4 silver, and 14 bronze, while Ghana took third with 3 gold, 15 silver, and 21 bronze.
Cameroon placed fourth with 1 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze medals, while Côte d’Ivoire completed the top five with 1 gold and no other medals.
The final gold medal of the competition came from Nigeria’s amputee football team, who defeated Liberia 1–0 in the final match on Wednesday, bringing the curtain down on a historic tournament.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, hailed the athletes’ efforts, calling their achievements a milestone in African Para sports history.
“This is history in the making, and the over 400 Para athletes that took part from across West Africa are the true heroes of African sports,” he said.
He also praised Ogun State’s government for aligning with the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy (RHINSE), which continues to elevate sports development nationwide.
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, added: “We are proud to be part of a tournament that has created visibility for Para sports and renewed hope for people living with disabilities. The Commission is committed to hosting more international events to advance this cause.”
President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Sunday Odebode, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and commended the NSC leadership, stating:
“Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade are the best thing that has ever happened to Para sports in Nigeria.”
He also extended appreciation to Victor Achakpo and the Local Organizing Committee for their outstanding commitment to the successful hosting of the Games.
