By Our Correspondent

National News – National Para Games concluded on Friday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium velodrome, with Enugu State emerging as overall champions after an impressive medal haul.

The third edition of the national multi-sport competition for athletes with disabilities saw Enugu dominate the medal table with 40 gold, eight silver and seven bronze medals, defeating strong contenders from across the country.

Bayelsa State finished second in the competition, recording 25 gold, 30 silver and 34 bronze medals, while Edo State secured third place with 25 gold, 14 silver and 12 bronze medals.

The sporting event, which brought together para-athletes from different states, celebrated resilience, talent and inclusivity in Nigerian sports.

Rivers State and Lagos State completed the top five on the final medals table. Rivers placed fourth with 21 gold, 21 silver and 17 bronze medals, while Lagos finished fifth after securing 20 gold, 23 silver and 20 bronze medals.

The colourful closing ceremony was attended by several government officials and dignitaries, including Nana Kashim‑Shetima, who represented the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

Other dignitaries present included Suwaiba Ahmad, Aliyu Abdullahi and Fatima Abbas.

In her remarks, the First Lady praised the athletes for their determination, discipline and courage throughout the competition.

She stated that both medal winners and participants had demonstrated exceptional commitment, describing them as champions whose efforts inspire Nigerians.

She also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment under Bola Ahmed Tinubu to promote opportunities for para-athletes and strengthen sports development nationwide.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, pledged continued investment in programmes that support athletes with disabilities.

He noted that prioritising para-sports would help nurture talents and improve Nigeria’s performance in international competitions.

The 2026 National Para Games highlighted the growing importance of inclusive sports development in Nigeria and showcased the determination of athletes who continue to break barriers through sports.