Nigeria Makes History as Champions of the Inaugural West Africa Para Games

Team Nigeria has etched its name in the annals of continental sports history by emerging as champions of the first edition of the West Africa Para Games, hosted in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The country dominated the multisport competition with an overwhelming medal haul, reaffirming its leadership in para-sports development within the sub-region.

The landmark event brought together para-athletes from several West African nations to compete across multiple disciplines including athletics, powerlifting, wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and table tennis. Designed to promote inclusion, inspire talent, and strengthen regional sporting cooperation, the Games marked a major milestone for disability sports in Africa.

Nigeria emerged first on the medals table with 59 gold, 39 silver, and 31 bronze medals, reflecting the team’s exceptional depth, technical quality, and consistency across events. Benin Republic finished a distant second with four gold, four silver, and 14 bronze medals, while Ghana claimed third place with three gold, 15 silver, and 21 bronze medals.

Officials attributed Nigeria’s success to years of investment in para-sports, improved training structures, and the resilience of athletes who have consistently showcased their abilities on both continental and global platforms. The victory also reinforces Nigeria’s long-standing dominance in Paralympic sports, where it has been a top performer internationally.

Beyond the medal glory, hosting the Games in Abeokuta highlighted Ogun State’s emerging reputation as a sports development hub. The smooth organisation of the event demonstrated Nigeria’s growing capacity to stage international para-sport competitions and foster unity through sport.

Stakeholders across the region hailed the West Africa Para Games as a turning point for para-athletes, expressing hope that subsequent editions will deepen collaboration, discover new talents, and elevate West Africa’s visibility in global disability sports.

As the inaugural champions, Team Nigeria’s historic performance not only celebrates athletic excellence but also highlights the nation’s enduring commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and sporting leadership across Africa.