To further strengthen Sports development in Nigeria, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Dr. James David Lalu has presented some packs of sporting kits to the FCT Para-soccer team in his office, today 30th April, 2024.
While addressing members of the team, the Executive Secretary urged them to continue to make the Commission as well as the disability community proud as they represent the Federal Capital Territory and the country in subsequent tournaments.
Dr. Lalu equally informed that the Paralympians that represented Nigeria at the last International tournament demonstrated uncommon ability by winning silver and bronze medals respectively in many sporting activities and that was what actually propelled the Commission to offer assistance to the team.
The Commission’s Boss also hinted that the Commission has changed its style of operations to suit the peoples’ demand and to address the challenges as it surfaces.
“We are changing the dynamics according to the needs of Persons with Disabilities, and I would rather describe the new policy as people-oriented, based on their needs” he disclosed.
In addition, the Executive Secretary pledged to reach out to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesome Wike and the Sports Council to give attention to Para-soccer teams in order to make the dream a reality.
He further mentioned that the Commission will write to FIFA to recognize Para-soccer as a viable game in the sporting agenda.
Reacting to the kind gesture by the Executive Secretary, the Manager of the team, Jimba Umar commended Dr. Lalu for fulfilling the promise to procure Jerseys for the team which was made during their last visit to the Commission.
Umar who was visibly emotional could not hold back while recounting how the team had been compelled to compete on borrowed jerseys from their counterparts anytime they would participate in an event.
“I am deeply grateful for the show of love and concern by the Commission for providing these soccer kits for my team, this implies that we can go all out with confidence to face our opponents without any sort of low self-esteem” he added.
He, however, seized the platform to pledge the team’s total commitment to the sporting event.