Nigeria’s Paralympians have called for increased recognition and support for athletes with disabilities to inspire continued success on the global stage.
After a stellar performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, where they claimed seven medals for Nigeria—including two gold, three silver, and two bronze—the Paralympic Committee Nigeria (PCN) hosted a gala to honor these athletes.
Speaking at the event, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, a gold medalist, expressed her gratitude for the recognition but urged for more consistent support. “This is the first time Paralympic athletes are being celebrated in this way, and we truly enjoyed it,” she said, adding that such recognition would motivate them to achieve even more.
Folashade, who shattered a Paralympic record with her impressive 147kg lift, appealed to the government to raise awareness about opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in sports. “More people would join if they knew about these opportunities,” she emphasized, encouraging others with disabilities to pursue their dreams and defy societal limitations.
Also honored was Bolaji Eniola, who made history as Nigeria and Africa’s first Paralympic badminton medalist. “This recognition means so much—it was my first time competing in the Paralympics, and I made history. Being celebrated tonight makes it all the more special,” she remarked.
President Bola Tinubu’s senior special assistant on disability matters, Muhammed Abba Isa, praised the Paralympians, noting their resilience and the need for broader support from both public and private sectors. “The government cannot do it alone; these athletes need our collective backing to continue making Nigeria proud,” he concluded.