By Angela Atabo
The FAME Foundation has called on government institutions, private organisations, development partners and the media to scale up investments in parasports and inclusive sporting infrastructure.
The Executive Director, FAME Foundation, Arabinrin Atoyebi, made the call on Monday in Abuja, while briefing newsmen on the forthcoming HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament to Celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025.
Atoyebi said that investing in parasports would create more inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities.
She said that the tournament, organised in partnership with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), would spotlight the importance of building a disability-inclusive Nigeria.
According to her, it will also advance this year’s global theme, which calls for societies to enable every individual to participate fully and thrive.
“Nigeria’s progress is tied to how well we include all our people.
“Millions of Nigerians live with disabilities, and too many, especially girls and women, still face barriers that limit their access to education, employment, a good life, and even sports,” she said.
According to Atoyebi, the 2025 HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament will give girls and women with disabilities a national platform to showcase their talent and resilience.
She said the tournament would take place at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
“It will feature 100 metres finals for visually impaired athletes, 100 metres finals for athletes with cerebral palsy and 100 metres finals for deaf athletes,” she said.
She said there would also be discus throw for amputees and polio survivors and shot put for amputees and Lexul athletes.
“Each event is designed to give every athlete a fair opportunity to shine. We invite everyone to come and witness these incredible athletes in action,” she said.
Atoyebi expressed appreciation to the FIRS for its partnership, describing the service as a committed champion of inclusion.
“By supporting this tournament, FIRS demonstrates leadership and a commitment to national progress. This partnership is instrumental, and we look forward to sustaining this collaboration for even greater impact.
“As we prepare for Dec. 3, we stand with every young woman who will be competing.
“Their courage opens doors for others, and their resilience reminds us of what is possible when opportunity meets determination,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
