The President of the Africa Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Samson Deen, has urged African nations to work toward developing a fully fledged continental Para Games that can grow into a globally celebrated sporting event.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the inaugural West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta, Nigeria, last Friday, Deen drew inspiration from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), noting that although the tournament began with only three participating countries, it has grown into one of the world’s most-watched football competitions.
He believes a similar success story can be achieved with para sports if the continent commits to building strong institutions.
Deen, who also serves as President of the Ghana Paralympic Committee, reminded stakeholders that the West African sub-region has long been the heartbeat of African football.
He said the time had come for para sports to receive equal recognition—not as a trend or global expectation, but as a right owed to every African child, regardless of ability.
“It is the right of every African child—walking, rolling, hearing, seeing or signing—to dream without limitation,” he stressed.
Addressing the athletes, Deen emphasised that their performances at the Games carry enormous significance. He said their efforts could influence national policies, shape community attitudes and inspire future generations of African children with disabilities.
He recalled the declaration made on September 3 during the maiden Africa Para Games hosted by Ghana, where it was affirmed that “Athletes with disabilities are not spectators of society—they are leaders of courage, ability and excellence.” Deen noted that this message has since helped redefine the narrative around para sports in Africa.
The AfPC president praised Ghana for paving the way by hosting the landmark event and urged Nigeria to build on that momentum as Abeokuta prepares to host the West Africa Para Games in 2025.
“Tonight, the torch of Accra 2023 is passed to Abeokuta 2025. Ghana lit the flame. Nigeria now expands the vision. West Africa leads the continent,” he declared.
The inaugural West Africa Para Games is expected to strengthen regional cooperation and push the continent closer to realising a unified African Para Games in the near future.
