It was six days of unadulterated display of skills, fights for medals and thrilling contests as spectators were treated to sporting excellence by competing athletes at the maiden edition of the National Para Games in Abuja.
After competition in 15 sports, Team Bayelsa emerged overall champions with a total of 93 medals, consisting 31 Gold, 30 Silver and 32 Bronze medals.
Team Oyo was second on the final medals table with a total of 60 medals (24 Gold, 15 silver and 21 Bronze medals).
Team Kano finished third with 42 medals consisting 21 Gold, 13 Silver and 8 bronze medals.
In other positions, Team Edo, Ondo, Imo and FCT completed the top 7 placements in 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th respectively.
On the final day of competition, Deaf Soccer thrilled spectators with splendour in the gold medal match as Team Abia picked gold narrowly beating Team Nassarawa one-nil.
In his closing remarks, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Sunday Dare expressed his happiness with the staging of the festival and the level of competitiveness at the Games. He stated that the athletes have always been deserving of a festival like this, as their contribution to Nigeria image internationally is awe-inspiring.
Speaking on his behalf, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Alhaji. Ismaila Abubakar thanked all contingents present and promised a bigger festival going forward.
He reiterated the commitment of the Government in the welfare of special athletes attested to by the creation of a special department for para athletes.
The 2nd edition of the National Para Games is expected to take place next year, and thereafter, every two years. This was put in place to lessen burden on States in having to fund athletes for both the National Para Games and National Sports Festival in the same year.
Twenty-one (21) states participated in the maiden Games as their athletes delivered style and skills for six days between the 9th April to the 16th of April 2022.
(Editor Paul Akhagbemhe)
