In a remarkable achievement for Nigeria and the continent’s para sports movement, two Nigerians have been elected to top leadership positions on the Board of the Africa Paralympic Committee (AfPC).
The elections took place on Sunday during the AfPC General Assembly held in Accra, Ghana, highlighting Nigeria’s growing influence within African para sports.
Key Nigerian Appointments
Mr. Sunday Odebode was re-elected as President of West Africa, while Mr. Suleiman Isah secured the role of Treasurer of the Africa Paralympic Committee.
Odebode, now serving another term, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by member countries in the West African region. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing inclusivity and the development of para sports across West Africa and the continent.
Similarly, Isah thanked the assembly for their confidence in him, promising transparency and accountability in managing the Committee’s financial affairs.
Significance of the Elections
The Africa Paralympic Committee serves as the umbrella organization overseeing Paralympic activities across the continent. It collaborates closely with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to encourage sports participation among individuals with disabilities.
The election of Odebode and Isah has been widely celebrated, reflecting Nigeria’s dedication and consistent contributions to the growth of para sports in Africa. Experts say it further solidifies the country’s leadership role in continental para sports.
Nigerian Sports Leadership Recognized
Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), described the achievement as another international milestone for Nigerian sports. He emphasized the supportive environment created by the Sports Commission for athletes and administrators to thrive globally.
“I must commend Sunday Odebode for his re-election as President of the West Africa Paralympic Committee; it confirms that he has been doing an excellent job of promoting and developing para sports in the West African sub-region,” Olopade stated.
He also praised Isah for his election as Treasurer of the AfPC and encouraged both leaders to leverage their positions to promote Nigerian sports on the continent. He highlighted the importance of collaborating with the NSC to advance the “renewed hope” agenda for Nigerian sports, as mandated by President Bola Tinubu.
Nigeria’s Influence in African Para Sports
This election reaffirms Nigeria’s fast-growing influence and leadership within the African Paralympic family. With 38 years of active participation in the AfPC, Nigeria has continually demonstrated its commitment to fostering para sports development and inclusivity across the continent.
The appointments of Odebode and Isah underscore the country’s leadership role and serve as an inspiration for future generations of Nigerian athletes and sports administrators.
Moving Forward
With these new roles, Odebode and Isah are expected to continue driving initiatives that improve the standard and visibility of para sports in West Africa and across Africa. Their leadership promises a continued focus on inclusivity, development, and the empowerment of athletes with disabilities.
As Nigeria shines in Africa Paralympic leadership, the country’s consistent dedication to para sports serves as a benchmark for excellence and international collaboration.
