The National Sports Commission has inaugurated a Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the third edition of the National Para Games, underscoring its dedication to inclusion and the growth of para sports across the country.
The National Para Games, an annual multi-sport competition staged by the Federal Government through the Commission, offers athletes with disabilities a platform to compete, showcase talent, and foster unity through sport.
A 13-member committee has been appointed to oversee preparations and ensure the successful delivery of the Games. The panel will be led by Mrs. Thecla Opara, Director of the National Sports Festival and Para Sports Department, while Mrs. Hauwa Saibu will serve as Secretary.
Other members of the committee are Raphael Odo, Mohammed Rabiu, Abdullahi Libata, Lambu Umar, Dr. Ozi Salami, Kola Daniel Adeyanju, Lanre Ogunjobi, Ebidowei Oweife, Issa Suleiman, and Asaba Pius.
The Commission has tasked the committee with staging a competition defined by fairness, professionalism, and sportsmanship, in line with international standards, as preparations gather momentum for another notable edition.
Events scheduled for the Games include Amputee Football, Para Athletics, Para Badminton, Para Canoe, Para Cycling, Para Karate, Para Powerlifting, Para Shooting, Para Soccer, Para Swimming, Para Taekwondo, Para Table Tennis, Sitting Volleyball, Wheelchair Basketball, and Wheelchair Tennis.
The competition will take place from March 26 to April 3, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, which also hosted previous editions.
The inaugural event in 2022 attracted more than 4,000 athletes from 21 states, with Bayelsa State finishing as overall champions. Participation grew significantly in the second edition, featuring all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, where Bayelsa successfully defended its title.
The National Sports Festival and Para Sports Department is coordinating the event in partnership with the Nigeria Paralympic Committee and other stakeholders to ensure seamless organization and compliance with global best practices.
