Abuja is set to host over 200 participants from 12 West African countries for the 13th West Africa Deaf Football Championships and the 3rd West Africa Deaf Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place from August 18 to 31 at the MKO Abiola Stadium.
President of the West Africa Deaf Sports Union (WADSU), Amuda Yusuf Ibrahim, disclosed this during a press briefing held in Lagos on Friday, July 11. He said the competition—hosted by Nigeria—will serve as a platform for selecting athletes and teams to represent the region in future continental and global tournaments.
According to Ibrahim, the championships aim to promote integration and inclusive participation of Deaf athletes across West Africa, showcase talent and ability within the Deaf community, and provide opportunities for economic empowerment through sports.
“This event is about more than just competition,” he said. “It’s a platform to combat poverty and discourage street begging by empowering Deaf individuals to earn a living through their talents.”
This year’s event also coincides with the 50th Golden Jubilee of ECOWAS, founded in 1975, adding to its significance.
While noting that ECOWAS has provided some financial support, Ibrahim explained that the grant is limited and covers only certain areas such as officials’ allowances, medals, jerseys, and prize payments. He therefore appealed to corporate organisations and philanthropists to provide additional funding.
“We’re calling on the private sector and well-meaning individuals to support us so we can deliver a successful event,” he urged.
Also speaking, President of the Nigeria Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF), Dagbo Suleiman, expressed confidence in the country’s readiness to host the championships.
“We’ve put all necessary logistics in place for a smooth and memorable event. Nigeria is proud to host, and we promise not to disappoint,” Suleiman said.
He also appreciated the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Bukola Olopade, for their support in making the MKO Abiola Stadium available for the championships.
NDSF Vice President and head of logistics, Comrade Ige-Jenyo Olawale, added that, in addition to football, the championships will feature athletics events including 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 4×100m relay, 4×400m relay, and mixed relays.
Countries expected to participate include Ghana, Senegal, Mali, Liberia, Togo, Cote d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Niger Republic, Burkina Faso, Guinea Conakry, and Guinea Bissau, among others.
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