FG inaugurates paralympic board, asks members to ensure inclusiveness

Sunday Dare, the minister of sports and youth development, on Tuesday, inaugurated the newly elected members of the board of the Paralympic Committee Nigeria (PCN).

At the ceremony held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba, Delta state, Dare charged the newly elected board members to ensure inclusiveness towards maintaining podium performances in competitions.

The minister also expressed optimism that the board members would help Nigeria to record more accolades through its paralympians.

“Para-sports has lifted the national flag high in global events and as such the athletes need encouragement and support to enhance their performances. I call on you to bring your experience to bear on ensuring a proper administration of paralympians’ activities in the country,” he said.

While congratulating the new board members on their election, Dare thanked the Delta state government for agreeing to host the congress.

Also speaking, Ismaila Abubakar, permanent secretary in the ministry, who was represented by Simon Ebhojaiye, the director of Federation, Elites and Athletes Development (FEAD), promised the new board members of adequate support and encouragement in their pursuits.

On his part, Odebode Sunday, president of the Paralympic Committee Nigeria (PCN), assured of medal haulage under their tenure.

Members of the PCN include Shodipo Ayinde, 1st vice president; Ugwunwa Flora, 2nd vice president and female athlete representative; Isah Suleiman, secretary general; Agbado Douglas, assistant secretary general; and Ettington Rafiu Olawale, treasurer.

Others are Asaba Pius Idowu, south-west; Ezeikpe Chinedu, south-east; Adisa Lukman Abefe, north-central; and Bungon Dauda, north-west.