Team Nigeria Pulls Out of Para All Africa Games Due to Lack of Funds

Team Nigeria's hopes of participating in the maiden edition of the Para All Africa Games have been shattered due to a lack of funds. The Paralympic Committee Nigeria (PCN) had diligently prepared their athletes to compete in wheelchair basketball, tennis, and amputee athletics. Unfortunately, even with their high level of preparedness, the country will not be represented at the games, which commenced on Sunday, 3rd September in Ghana and will run until 13th September.

Sources within the Federal Ministry of Sports Development have revealed that the paucity of funds is the primary reason for Team Nigeria's inability to attend the Games. Despite the athletes and federations being fully prepared and eager to participate, the required financing was not made available.

During a recent visit to the National Stadium in Surulere, the newly appointed minister was approached by the para athletes, who expressed their desire to be part of the Games. The minister assured them that he would address the matter and ensure their participation. However, with only a day left until the opening ceremony, there is no indication that the country will be able to attend.

A source, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment, saying, "As it stands now, there is nothing on ground to suggest that the country will participate. The para athletes are still in Nigeria while other African countries have already arrived in Ghana for the Games."

Initial expectations were that Nigeria would participate in the tennis event with a team of four players. However, the country will now not be in attendance at all.

The para athletes, who had dedicated themselves to intense training and preparation for the Games, are understandably saddened by this unfortunate turn of events. "We are not happy with this development," they lamented. "We worked so hard to make the country proud, and now our efforts will be in vain."

They also expressed their frustration, pointing out the stark contrast between the treatment of able-bodied athletes and para athletes. "If it was the able-bodied athletes, the Federal Government would have made money available. This is not fair at all," they added.

It is indeed disheartening to witness the dreams of these para athletes being shattered by financial constraints. These individuals have dedicated their time and energy to represent their country on the international stage. Their disappointment speaks volumes about the need for greater support and recognition for para athletes in Nigeria.

The Para All Africa Games provide an opportunity for athletes with disabilities to showcase their talent and compete on an equal platform. Not being able to participate not only affects the athletes personally but also reflects poorly on Nigeria as a whole. It is crucial that more attention is given to the funding and support of para sports in the country.

The para athletes, despite their disappointment, will continue to train hard and work towards future competitions where they can proudly represent Nigeria. Their resilience and determination should serve as an inspiration to us all.

As Nigerians, we should rally behind our para athletes and demand better support and funding for their endeavors. Let us not allow financial constraints to suppress the dreams of these talented individuals.

We hope that the relevant authorities and stakeholders take immediate action to ensure that lack of funding does not hinder future opportunities for our para athletes. It is their right to be given the same opportunities as able-bodied athletes and contribute to the success of Nigerian sports on the international stage.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, "Sport has the power to change the world." Let us embrace this power and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all athletes, regardless of ability.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-03 News

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