By Nana Yaw Preko
In a landmark moment for disability sports in Africa, President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Mr. Samson Deen, has described the upcoming 1st West Africa Para Games as a “turning point” for the continent. The historic event is set to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, in September 2025, with full endorsement from the AfPC.
Mr. Deen paid an official visit to Nigeria on Thursday, July 31, 2025, as part of a broader mission to galvanise African governments, political leaders, and private stakeholders to invest meaningfully in inclusive sports infrastructure and development.
An inspiring venue, a historic opportunity
During his visit, Mr. Deen inspected the M.K.O. Abiola Sports Arena, visiting key facilities including the athletics oval, football pitch, swimming pool, and tennis and basketball courts. The tour was aimed at assessing Ogun State’s readiness to host the first sub-regional para sports event in West Africa, which will welcome hundreds of para-athletes and officials from across the ECOWAS region.
“We need to change our mentality from being tourists crossing to Europe and America, and instead invest in games here in Africa. It is cheaper, more accessible, and feels like home. We often spend thousands on tickets and accommodation abroad, only to face cold weather and denied visas,” Mr. Deen said.
AfPC endorsement and rallying call
After the inspection, Mr. Deen officially announced the AfPC’s full endorsement of the Games, describing it as a “continental turning point” in inclusive sports diplomacy.
“The West Africa Para Games is not just a tournament — it is Africa’s declaration that ability has no limit, and disability is not inability. Ogun State now stands on the cusp of making history for an entire generation,” he stated.
He also urged the Governor of Ogun State to rally national and regional support to ensure the Games’ long-term success and legacy.
Private sector urged to invest
Mr. Deen used the occasion to call on African businesses to see disability sports as a meaningful investment in human potential, dignity, and innovation.
“When African businesses invest in disability sports, they invest in hope, unity, and the power of human potential. This is our moment to build arenas of equity across Africa,” he said.
Building a legacy beyond the Games
Beyond competition, the West Africa Para Games aims to inspire policy change, enhance regional funding, and reshape perceptions around disability across the continent. The Games are expected to spark new frameworks for inclusion, empower youth, and promote leadership opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Preparations are ongoing in collaboration with the Government of Ogun State, NPC Nigeria, and other regional stakeholders, with organisers promising a world-class inaugural edition.
