Abuja, September 2024 — Nigerian Paralympians have once again proven their strength, resilience, and tenacity on the global stage, securing seven medals at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. In recognition of their remarkable achievements, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, hosted the athletes at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, awarding cash gifts and commending their outstanding performance.
The Nigerian team, led by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, was received with great fanfare by the First Lady, who lauded their exceptional dedication to their craft, their unwavering perseverance, and their role in uniting the nation through sport.
As the Grand Patron of African Paralympic Sports, Tinubu honored the gold medalists with a generous cash reward of $20,000 (equivalent to N32 million), silver medalists with $10,000, and bronze medalists with $5,000. This significant gesture underscores her deep appreciation for the athletes’ contributions to national pride and the global recognition of Nigeria’s sporting talent.
A Nation United in Celebration
Speaking during the ceremony, Senator Tinubu expressed her heartfelt congratulations to the entire Paralympic contingent, acknowledging the vital role they played in elevating Nigeria’s status in the international sports arena.
“Today, we celebrate not just the medals, but the spirit of resilience that defines our athletes,” Tinubu said. “Your names will be written in the annals of history as champions, and your success has united us all in celebration.”
She emphasized that the athletes’ achievements were not just individual victories but triumphs that brought the entire nation together, inspiring hope and pride in the hearts of millions of Nigerians. The First Lady noted that the athletes’ determination and sportsmanship set a powerful example for the country and demonstrated that, regardless of challenges, Nigerian athletes could compete—and win—on the world stage.
“I congratulate each one of you for making Nigeria proud. Your success has united us all in celebration, and I am confident that this is just the beginning of more historic accomplishments to come,” she continued. “We look forward to the future with renewed hope, knowing that with champions like you, Nigeria’s place on the global stage is assured.”
Paralympic Heroes: Folashade Oluwafemiayo and Onyinyechi Mark Shine
Among the honored athletes were Nigeria’s golden powerlifters, Folashade Oluwafemiayo and Onyinyechi Mark, whose incredible performances in the Para-powerlifting events earned them widespread admiration.
Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who broke her own world record by lifting an astonishing 167kg, was praised by the First Lady for her extraordinary feat. This victory not only secured her second Paralympic gold medal but also solidified her position as one of the most accomplished para-athletes in the world.
“Folashade’s incredible lift of 167kg not only broke her world record but also established her as a two-time Paralympic champion,” Tinubu said with pride. “You have raised the bar for para-athletes worldwide, and your victory stands as a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians.”
Oluwafemiayo’s triumph in Paris is a testament to her years of hard work, dedication, and resilience in overcoming adversity to reach the pinnacle of her sport. Similarly, Onyinyechi Mark’s gold medal performance in the Para-powerlifting event further showcased Nigeria’s dominance in the field, with both athletes receiving widespread recognition for their contributions to the country’s Paralympic success.
The Legacy of Nigeria’s Paralympians
The 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris marked yet another chapter in Nigeria’s rich Paralympic history. The country’s athletes have consistently demonstrated their prowess in various sports, earning Nigeria international recognition and respect. From powerlifting to athletics, the Nigerian contingent has regularly secured medals at the Paralympic Games, proving that the country’s athletes are among the best in the world.
Senator John Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, echoed these sentiments during the courtesy visit, praising the athletes for their determination and for representing Nigeria with honor and distinction. He also thanked the First Lady for her unwavering support of para-sports in Nigeria and her commitment to ensuring that the athletes receive the recognition and rewards they deserve.
“Nigeria is proud of each and every one of you,” Enoh said. “Your commitment to excellence, your perseverance in the face of challenges, and your ability to unite the nation through sport are truly inspiring. You have shown the world that Nigeria is a force to be reckoned with in the Paralympic arena, and for that, we are immensely proud.”
Cash Prizes as Motivation for Future Success
The cash rewards presented by Senator Tinubu are not only a token of appreciation but also an investment in the future of Nigerian para-sports. The significant financial incentives are expected to provide the athletes with the support they need to continue excelling in their respective sports, helping them to prepare for future competitions and potentially inspire a new generation of para-athletes.
The First Lady’s gesture also reflects the broader commitment of the Nigerian government to promoting inclusivity in sports. By recognizing the achievements of Paralympians and offering tangible rewards, the government is sending a message that athletes with disabilities deserve the same respect, recognition, and opportunities as their able-bodied counterparts.
Building a Legacy of Inclusivity and Excellence
Senator Tinubu’s role as the Grand Patron of African Paralympic Sports further highlights her dedication to promoting inclusivity in sports, both in Nigeria and across the continent. As she continues to champion the rights and recognition of athletes with disabilities, her leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for Nigerian para-athletes and ensuring that their achievements are celebrated on both national and international platforms.
In her closing remarks, the First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to supporting Nigeria’s Paralympians and expressed optimism about the future of para-sports in the country. “This is just the beginning,” she said. “With champions like you, Nigeria’s place on the global stage is assured. We will continue to support you, celebrate you, and work towards ensuring that future generations of para-athletes have the opportunity to follow in your footsteps.”
As the ceremony concluded, the atmosphere was one of celebration, hope, and renewed determination. The Nigerian Paralympians have not only brought home medals but also reignited a sense of national pride and unity. With the support of leaders like Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the future of Nigerian para-sports looks brighter than ever.
A Bright Future for Nigerian Para-Athletes
As Nigeria continues to celebrate its Paralympians’ achievements, there is no doubt that the athletes will remain a source of inspiration for the entire nation. Their success in Paris serves as a reminder that, with hard work and determination, anything is possible. With champions like Folashade Oluwafemiayo and Onyinyechi Mark leading the way, Nigeria’s future in the Paralympic movement is one filled with hope, promise, and continued excellence.
