— Sixth Title for Nigeria as NCPWD Hails Historic Victory
Abuja, Nigeria — August 30, 2025. The Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja erupted in celebration as Nigeria’s Deaf Super Eagles clinched their sixth title at the 13th West African Deaf Football Championship, defeating the Scorpions of Gambia in a pulsating final that will be remembered as a defining moment for deaf sports in the region.
The championship, organized by the Nigeria Deaf Football Association (NDFA) in collaboration with the West African Deaf Sports Federation, and supported by ECOWAS, brought together top deaf football teams from across West Africa, including Nigeria, Niger Republic, Gambia, Liberia, and others. For many fans, this was more than just a football tournament — it was a showcase of resilience, skill, and the growing influence of persons with disabilities in African sports.
A Victory Beyond Football
For Nigeria, the triumph was more than another trophy. It was a symbol of determination, unity, and the unrelenting spirit of athletes with disabilities. The Deaf Super Eagles displayed exceptional discipline, tactical brilliance, and sheer courage throughout the competition, with their final showdown against Gambia keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the last whistle.
“This victory is a source of pride for Nigeria and a testament to the incredible talent, discipline, and determination of our deaf athletes,” said Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), in his congratulatory message.
Gufwan praised the team not only for their athletic excellence but also for serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration to millions of Nigerians with disabilities. He reaffirmed NCPWD’s commitment to advocating for increased government and stakeholder support to ensure that athletes with disabilities receive the recognition, funding, and opportunities they deserve.
Sports as a Tool for Inclusion
The Executive Secretary further highlighted the broader significance of the victory, stressing that it reflects the importance of empowering persons with disabilities through sports.
“Hosting this tournament in Nigeria is a great honor,” Gufwan remarked. “Beyond the medals and celebrations, it is a reminder that when persons with disabilities are given the right platform, they shine brightly. We celebrate this victory with every patriotic Nigerian.”
The victory of the Deaf Super Eagles has once again drawn attention to the transformative role of sports in fostering inclusivity and national unity. For many advocates, it is a clarion call for the government and private sector to deepen investments in disability sports, not just for international competitions but also for grassroots development.
Tournament Highlights
- Nigeria’s Deaf Super Eagles defeated Gambia’s Scorpions to clinch their 6th West African Deaf Football Championship title.
- The tournament featured teams from Nigeria, Gambia, Niger Republic, Liberia, and other West African nations.
- The matches were hosted at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with logistical and institutional support from ECOWAS.
- The event underscored the growing strength of deaf sports in West Africa, drawing large support from fans, families, and disability advocates.
A Call for More Support
While the Deaf Super Eagles have consistently proven themselves as champions, concerns remain about the level of investment and recognition given to disability sports in Nigeria. Many believe that with the right infrastructure, training facilities, and financial backing, Nigerian athletes with disabilities could dominate the global stage just as they do regionally.
The NCPWD has reiterated its commitment to working with the Ministry of Sports, private sector partners, and civil society to ensure sustainable support for athletes with disabilities. Their triumph in Abuja, according to Gufwan, is not the end of the journey but the beginning of a stronger movement towards equality and inclusivity in Nigerian sports.
Celebrating Resilience, Inspiring a Nation
For the players and coaching staff of the Deaf Super Eagles, the victory is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. For the fans and the wider disability community, it is proof that barriers can be broken and that talent knows no limits.
As the team lifted the championship trophy under the floodlights of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, one message rang loud and clear across the stands and into the hearts of Nigerians: When given the opportunity, persons with disabilities can compete, excel, and inspire a nation.
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