The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has sent a message of congratulations to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu over her conferment as Grand Patron of the African Paralympic Committee, by Samson Deen, the President, African Paralympic Committee
Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement quoted the Minister at the event to have described the award as a testament to Her Excellency’s vision of giving hope to the less privileged, most especially, the physically challenged sports men and women.
He added that Her Excellency’s honour as the Grand Patron for African Para Games and Para Sports fraternity in Africa is in identifying with her dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Senator Enoh explained that sports hold a special place in our hearts, adding that para athletes showcase the indomitable spirit and resilience of athletes who have overcome immense challenges to compete at the highest level.
These games he added further exhibit the immense talent and potential of individuals with disabilities and remind us that there are abilities in disabilities.
The Minister expressed optimism that as the Grand Patron, Her Excellency will undoubtedly inspire more positive change, fostering an environment where para-athletes can thrive and showcase their exceptional talents on the continental stage.
“We look forward to witnessing the impact of her leadership in advancing the cause of para sports and promoting a more inclusive society, in Nigeria and all of Africa
“We congratulate Her Excellency on this well-deserved appointment and express our gratitude for her unwavering dedication to the betterment of our society. “May her tenure as the Grand Patron be marked by significant strides in the advancement of para sports in Nigeria and Africa at large, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come”, the Minister said.
While presenting the First Lady with the ceremonial decoration, the President of the African Paralympic Committee, Samson Deen,
appealed to her to encourage other African First Ladies to take on similar leadership roles in their respective countries.
In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognised the power of para sports in fostering unity, peace and stability in Nigeria and Africa in general, adding that Para sports also inspires achievement and transform lives.
The First Lady pledged to support the organisation and athletes involved in furthering the mission of the African Para Games within her capacity as Grand Patron.
While thanking the African Para Games for the recognition, Senator Oluremi Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated further that she looks forward to more collaboration with a view to
promoting the rights of para-athletes on the continent.
Her patronage is seen as an important step in highlighting the accomplishments of differently-abled African athletes.
