The FCT Para-Sports Association recently organized a para-athlete competition at the Area 10 Sports Complex in Abuja, celebrating the abilities of persons with disabilities.
The event featured athletes from across the FCT, including those from the FCT School for Children with Special Needs, Kuje, who competed in various events such as wheelchair race, walk race, shot put, javelin, and discus.
The competition was aimed at promoting inclusion and excellence in sports, and was attended by several dignitaries, including the Acting Director of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, Dr. Salamatu Belgore, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Abah Isa Mohammed.
Dr. Belgore praised the organizers for their dedication to promoting inclusion and excellence through sports, and pledged the agency’s continued support for initiatives that promote inclusion, health, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Hon. Mohammed assured that the President has a strong interest in the welfare of persons with disabilities and plans to recognize and honour para athletes for their excellent performances in international competitions.
The Secretary of the FCT Para-Sports Association, Ketura Nkom, said the association is using sports as a form of both physical and mental therapy for athletes with disabilities, providing a platform for them to realize their full potential.
She expressed appreciation to the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his commitment to sports development, and commended the FCT Para-Sports Association, the FCT Sports Department, and corporate partners for their contributions to the success of the event.
The one-day event ended with the presentation of prizes to winners and the enrolment of 100 para athletes into the FCT Health Insurance Scheme.
Abuja Times reports that the event highlighted the importance of sports in promoting inclusion, health, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, and the need for continued support for initiatives that promote their welfare.