Nigeria’s Para-Athletes Shine at African Grand Prix, Clinch 19 Medals — PCN Lauds NSC’s Renewed Support
President of the Para-Olympics Committee of Nigeria (PCN), Sunday Odebode, has attributed the country’s recent success at the 2025 African Para Athletics Grand Prix in Tunisia to the improved funding and strategic support from the National Sports Commission (NSC).
Team Nigeria delivered an outstanding performance at the event, finishing second overall out of 42 participating countries. The para-athletes clinched a total of 19 medals 10 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze further securing qualifications for the upcoming World Championship in India, as well as key slots for the Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Odebode praised the NSC leadership, particularly its Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for what he described as “unprecedented support” for para-sports in the country. “We have never had it this good in the past,” Odebode said. “The Commission is not only providing financial backing but also technical assistance that is helping us succeed both locally and internationally.”
He highlighted how smooth funding and increased attention from the NSC have enabled the execution of vital preparatory programs. “Just recently, the Para-lifters completed their trials where we discovered 10 new athletes. They’ll be heading to Santiago, Chile for a World tournament,” he revealed.
Odebode also confirmed that multiple para-sports disciplines are in full gear for international events. Para-athletics and para-swimming camps are scheduled to open this month, while the wheelchair basketball team is intensifying preparations ahead of the Commonwealth Games. “All of this would not have been possible without the new funding model introduced by the Commission,” he said.
The impressive outing in Tunisia is widely seen as a testament to the growing momentum in Nigeria’s para-sports development under the current NSC leadership.
