By Isaac Tetteh
The President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Mr. Samson Deen, recently engaged Nigerian diplomatic officials in Ghana to rally support for disability sports across the continent. During his visit to the Nigerian High Commissioner in Accra, Deen emphasized the importance of fostering stronger collaborations to promote para sports, highlighting upcoming events such as the West African Para Games and the African Paralympic Committee General Assembly. His outreach underscores a strategic effort to leverage diplomatic channels to advance inclusion and sports development.
A key focus of the discussions was to secure backing from Nigeria’s influential First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, who was named Grand Patron of African Paralympic Games and Para Sports in 2023. Deen requested a follow-up meeting with her to update her on the organization’s programs and seek her support in mobilizing other African First Ladies to champion disability sports. This move aims to integrate high-level advocacy into broader national efforts to promote gender equality and social inclusion.
The Nigerian High Commissioner expressed strong alignment with the goals of the Paralympic Movement, commending Deen’s vision for inclusivity. His Excellency Ifedayo Adeoye assured the AfPC delegation of Nigeria’s commitment to supporting these initiatives, emphasizing the country’s focus on empowering women and marginalized groups. He also indicated Nigeria’s willingness to facilitate further engagement with the First Lady to strengthen regional cooperation in disability advocacy.
Delegates accompanying Deen, including representatives Ignatius Elletey, Foster Kwarteng, and Michael Obeng, highlighted the importance of diplomatic support in advancing sports programs for persons with disabilities. Their visit reflects a broader strategy to secure political backing and resources necessary for the successful hosting of upcoming events and initiatives aimed at fostering social integration through sports.
This diplomatic outreach marks a significant step in leveraging political influence to promote disability inclusion across Africa. By engaging Nigeria’s leadership, the AfPC hopes to catalyze regional collaboration and garner more high-level advocacy, ultimately transforming the landscape of para sports and social equity on the continent.
