Nigeria’s Deaf Super Eagles have reaffirmed their dominance in African deaf football by winning the 13th edition of the West African Deaf Football Championship after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Gambia’s Scorpions. The thrilling final, held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, ended 1-1 after regulation time, with Nigeria triumphing 4-2 in the penalty shootout to claim their sixth championship title.
The tournament, which showcased the very best of deaf football talent in the sub-region, was organized by the Nigeria Deaf Football Association in collaboration with the West African Deaf Sports Federation, and supported by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Teams from across West Africa, including Cote D’Ivorie, Togo, Niger Republic, Liberia, and Gambia, participated in the competition, underscoring the growing strength of deaf sports in the region.
In his congratulatory message, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, applauded the resilience, skill, and determination displayed by the Nigerian players.
“This victory is a source of pride for Nigeria and a testament to the incredible talent, discipline, and determination of our deaf athletes. The Commission will continue to advocate for greater support from government and stakeholders to ensure that deaf footballers and all athletes with disabilities receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve. Today, you have made Nigeria proud,” he said.
Gufwan emphasized that beyond the trophy, the championship represents the importance of empowering persons with disabilities through sports. He stressed that inclusivity in sports not only fosters individual confidence but also promotes national unity and pride.
Hosting the championship in Nigeria, he added, underscores the country’s commitment to creating platforms where persons with disabilities can showcase their abilities and achieve excellence on the international stage.
The Executive Secretary further called on sports authorities, private sector partners, and civil society organizations to invest in disability sports, ensuring that athletes with disabilities are not left behind in national and international competitions.
The victory marks another significant milestone for the Deaf Super Eagles, who have maintained their position as a formidable force in African deaf football. Their latest success further cements Nigeria’s reputation as a leading nation in promoting inclusive sports within the region.
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all sectors of society, including sports, education, and employment.
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