Enugu State emerged as overall champions of the 3rd National Para Games, topping the medals table with 40 gold, eight silver and seven bronze medals. The event concluded on Friday at the velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, marked by a vibrant closing ceremony attended by high-ranking government officials. Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, represented First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who praised the athletes for their discipline, focus and resilience. She celebrated all participants as champions, regardless of medal count, and reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to inclusive sports development under President Bola Tinubu. The Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, and Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, were among the dignitaries present. National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko expressed commitment to sustained support for para athletes and thanked President Tinubu for prioritising sports. Bayelsa State finished second with 25 gold, 30 silver and 34 bronze medals, while Edo State took third with 25 gold, 14 silver and 12 bronze. Rivers State placed fourth with 21 gold, 21 silver and 17 bronze, and Lagos State fifth with 20 gold, 23 silver and 20 bronze. The games served as a platform to promote inclusivity and showcase the depth of talent in Nigerian para sports.
Enugu's dominance with 40 gold medals, more than any other state, signals a shift in grassroots investment in para sports. When the First Lady says every Nigerian life matters, and follows it with recognition of non-medal winners as champions, it reframes success beyond podium finishes. This is not just encouragement — it's a directive to states to replicate Enugu's model of development. Para athletes are no longer sidelined; they are now central to Nigeria's sporting identity.
