By Olusegun Folarin
The Nigeria Amputee football team defeated Benin Republic by 11-nil in the first game of the ongoing 1st West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta.
The Nigerian team who dominated the match recorded five goals in the first half while six goals were scored in the second half of the game played at the main bowl of the MKO Abiola sports arena in Abeokuta.
The Nigerian team showed class from the kick off, dominating possession till the end of the match, making the Benin Republic amputee football team to look ordinary.
The fans at the stadium were thrilled by the performance of the Nigerian team, cheering them throughout the duration of the game
In a post match news conference, the coach of the Nigerian team, Gbenga Dosunmu, appreciated the team for the brilliant performance adding that the boys had been motivated before the competition.
He said that his boys would approach their next game against Cameroon with all seriousness.
Meanwhile, about 700 para-athletes from 16 countries are already in Abeokuta, the Ogun State Capital to contest for medals in 11 sporting events at the ongoing first West Africa Para Games.
The Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Mr Victor Achakpo, stated this while speaking with sports journalists in Abeokuta.
Mr Achakpo who announced that the host nation would parade 190 athletes noted that arrangements had been concluded towards the success of the competition, which began on Friday, 28th November, 2025 and ends on Thursday, December 4.
The LOC chairman assured the athletes of their safety through out the games adding that two countries outside the West African regoin ; Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon would be participating with other fourteen West African nations in the games, assuring participants of a free and fair games.
The Secretary-General, Africa Paralympic Committee , Mr Ignatius Elletey, commended the Federal Government and the Nigeria Paralympic Committee for hosting the maiden edition of the West Africa Para Games.
He described the gesture as historic and impactful contribution to the development of Para sports in the continent.
Also, the President, Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Mr Sunday Odebode commended the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Sheu Dikko , Director General, Bukola Olopade and African Paralympic committee for making sure Nigeria host the maiden West Africa Para Games.
