Lagos is set to host the highly anticipated 12th edition of the West Africa Deaf Football Competition, scheduled to take place from October 12th to 18th, 2024.
The tournament will be held at two major sporting venues—the historic Onikan Stadium and the National Stadium in Surulere.
President of the West Africa Deaf Sports Union, Mr. Ibrahim Amuda, announced the participating nations, which include Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Niger Republic, Togo, and the host nation, Nigeria. These eight countries will compete for top honors in what promises to be a thrilling showcase of athleticism and sportsmanship.
Mr. Amuda emphasized the significance of this tournament for the participating teams, particularly for Nigeria, as it serves as a vital preparatory event ahead of the African Deaf Football Championship, slated for November in Morocco.
In a joint statement, the President of the Nigeria Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF), Alhaji Saka Suleiman Dagbo, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Sports for their ongoing support. Dagbo underscored that deaf sports are no longer considered secondary in Nigeria but are instead gaining prominence on the national sports agenda. He affirmed that, as the chief host, the NDSF is committed to supporting the championship to the fullest extent.
Mr. Amuda also extended his appreciation to the ECOWAS leadership for their unwavering support since the inception of the tournament in 2010. Their backing has been crucial in sustaining the event over the years.
Additionally, the Vice President of the Nigeria Deaf Sports Federation, Comrade Ige Jenyo, announced that athletic events will be incorporated into this year’s championship to include deaf athletes outside of football. The inclusion of athletics, he noted, will also help Nigerian athletes prepare for the 2026 African Deaf Athletes Championship, which will be hosted by Nigeria.
According to Mrs. Shola Ogundele, the Technical Director, the athletics events will feature men’s and women’s 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay, and a mixed relay.
As for the rewards, the football champions will receive $2,000 and a trophy, while the runners-up and third-place teams will take home $1,500 and $1,000, respectively. Cash prizes will also be awarded to winners in the athletics categories, ensuring widespread recognition for all competing athletes.