By Kanu Samuel
The Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, came alive on Saturday, 28 March, as senior government officials, sports administrators and athletes from across the country gathered for the official opening ceremony of the 3rd National Para Sports Festival at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Presiding over the high-profile event was the representative of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, who formally declared the Games open on behalf of the President.
In his address, Dikko underscored the significance of the Para Games, noting that the initiative—organised by the National Sports Commission—aims to provide persons with physical disabilities a platform to discover and showcase their talents, while also preparing them for international competitions such as the Paralympic Games, African Championships and the Commonwealth Games.
He stressed that the biennial event extends beyond medals and podium finishes, describing it as a celebration of resilience, courage and the human spirit.
According to him, the Games continue to highlight the exceptional abilities of athletes with disabilities, while promoting unity, inclusion and equal opportunities within society.
Athletes and spectators were treated to a colourful display of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, as various cultural troupes entertained the audience with performances reflecting the nation’s diversity, unity and peaceful coexistence.
The Games, which commenced on 26 March, will run until 3 April, bringing together over 3,000 athletes from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The Ondo State contingent emerged as one of the highlights of the ceremony, earning admiration for their dignified appearance and vibrant presentation of the Sunshine State’s cultural heritage.
The Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Omoyofunmi Henry, commended the state government and praised the athletes for representing Ondo State with pride during the march-past.
Team Ondo is set to compete for honours in 15 sporting events at the festival.
With the official declaration of the Games, attention now turns to the various competition venues, where determination, courage and resilience are expected to define yet another memorable edition of the National Para Sports Festival.
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