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The decision by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to bar states that failed to participate in the National Para Games from competing in para sports at the forthcoming National Sports Festival has drawn widespread support from sports administrators across Nigeria.
In a firm move to enforce discipline and restore credibility, the Commission invoked Article 13(V) of the Games’ regulations, effectively excluding defaulting states that neglected participation at the Para Games.
Among the prominent voices backing the decision is Rivers State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Christopher Green, who praised the Commission’s zero-tolerance stance. He emphasized that regulations must be respected, noting that enforcement is critical to maintaining standards in sports administration.
The level of participation at the nine-day Para Games further underscored the Commission’s concerns, with only 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory in attendance. Notably absent were major sporting states such as Delta State and Ogun State.
Even among participating states, several contingents were under-prepared, arriving with limited athletes, inadequate kits, and poor logistical support. In some cases, irregularities were evident, with Lagos State stepping in during medal presentations on behalf of absent states like Enugu State.
Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations at the Edo State Sports Commission, Sabina Chikere, described the NSC’s action as a bold statement of intent. She commended the leadership of Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade, noting that the decision would serve as a deterrent against negligence and tokenism in the treatment of para athletes.
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Similarly, Technical Adviser to Governor Abiodun Oyebanji on Sports Development, Olusola Osetoba, described the move as a milestone for inclusivity in Nigerian sports. She lamented the lack of institutional support for para athletes, pointing out that many delegations attended without top officials to provide direction and backing.
Osetoba stressed that para athletes deserve equal recognition, adding that their sacrifices and commitment should not be undermined by administrative lapses.
Investigations also revealed troubling lapses in awareness and preparation among some states, with one South-West Sports Commissioner reportedly unaware of the Games despite extensive publicity. In several instances, there were no concrete plans, funding arrangements, or team preparations leading up to the competition.
Observers have also highlighted the stark contrast in priorities, noting that many of the same states invest heavily during the National Sports Festival—spending millions on athlete recruitment and incentives—while neglecting para sports.
President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Benjamin Isaiah, described the NSC’s decision as a significant step forward. He expressed optimism that stricter enforcement of regulations would lead to improved respect and support for para athletes nationwide.
The NSC’s stance is widely seen as a defining moment in the push for accountability and equal treatment in Nigerian sports, particularly for athletes competing in para disciplines.
