Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, hosted the nation’s Paralympic team at the State House, following their remarkable performance at the just-concluded Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The reception took place at the presidential villa in Abuja, where the team was celebrated for their outstanding achievements.
Nigeria’s Paralympic athletes returned home after a triumphant outing in Paris, securing a total of seven medals, placing the country 40th overall on the medal table. Their impressive haul included three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals across various disciplines, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a powerhouse in Paralympic sports.
In her address, the First Lady commended the athletes for their resilience, determination, and patriotism, which inspired the nation. She highlighted the significance of their performance, not only for Nigeria but for the global Paralympic movement. Mrs. Tinubu emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting sports development, particularly for athletes with disabilities.
Several government officials, sports administrators, and representatives of the Nigeria Paralympic Committee (NPC) were present at the reception to celebrate the team’s success. Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, lauded the athletes’ commitment and pledged continued government support to ensure Nigeria remains a dominant force in future Paralympic competitions.
The 2024 Paralympic Games saw Nigeria excel in powerlifting, para-athletics, and table tennis, solidifying its status as a leading nation in these events. The athletes’ outstanding performance in Paris builds on Nigeria’s legacy of success in Paralympic competitions, dating back to its debut in 1992.
The reception concluded with a group photo and a symbolic presentation of the medals to the First Lady, marking the end of a memorable day for the team. The Nigerian Paralympic delegation’s achievements serve as a reminder of the country’s immense potential in adaptive sports and the importance of continued support for athletes with disabilities.