By Goodluck Ikiebe
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has congratulated the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Bola Tinubu as she was presented a Certificate as Grand Patron of the African Paralympic Committee, by Samson Deen, the President, African Paralympic Committee
At the event, the Minister described the award as a testament to the First Lady’s vision of giving hope to the less privileged, most especially, the physically challenged Sports men and women.
He added that the honour as the Grand Patron for African American 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 Owan Enoh stated 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 stated further, exhibit the immense talent and potential of individuals with disabilities and remind us that there are ABILITIES IN DISABILITIES.
Senator Owan Enoh expressed optimism that as the Grand Patron, Senator Oluremi Tinubu 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 the 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 noted.
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 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 Tinubu, stated that she looks forward to more collaboration with a view to
promoting the rights of Para-athletes on the continent.
Our Correspondent reports that her patronage is seen as an important step in highlighting the accomplishments of differently abled African athletes.