Nigeria’s para-athletes delivered a spectacular performance at the 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Tunis, Tunisia, securing a remarkable 19 medals and claiming the second-place position overall among 61 competing nations. This impressive achievement, comprising 10 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze medals, underscores Nigeria’s continued dominance in para-athletics on both the continental and global stages. The Grand Prix, held from June 12th to 19th at the Olympic Athletics Stadium in Rades, served as a critical qualifying event for the upcoming 2025 World Championships in New Delhi, India, adding further significance to Nigeria’s triumphant outing. The competition was fierce, with over 390 athletes participating, including strong representations from powerhouse nations such as host nation Tunisia, India, China, and Uzbekistan. However, the Nigerian contingent rose to the challenge, demonstrating exceptional skill and resilience in the face of tough competition.
The Nigerian team’s success was a product of consistent high performance across a range of track and field events, spanning various disability classifications. This broad-based success showcases the depth of talent within the Nigerian para-athletics program and the effectiveness of the training and support systems in place. Athletes such as Flora Ugwunwa, Sefiu Ojeley, Alam Ugochi, and Uwak Unyime emerged as standout performers, contributing significantly to the medal tally with multiple podium finishes. Their individual achievements, combined with the collective effort of the entire team, solidified Nigeria’s position as a force to be reckoned with in international para-athletics. The impressive medal haul in Tunis serves as a powerful testament to the dedication and hard work of these athletes, their coaches, and the support staff.
Sunday Odebode, President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN), expressed immense pride and satisfaction with the team’s performance, commending the athletes for their unwavering commitment and relentless effort. He recognized their dedication and perseverance in the face of challenging competition, attributing their success to a combination of talent, hard work, and the strategic support provided by the National Sports Commission. Odebode emphasized the crucial role of the Commission’s sponsorship in enabling the team’s participation in the prestigious Grand Prix, highlighting the importance of continued investment in para-sports development. He acknowledged that the athletes’ achievements are a direct reflection of the support received and a source of national pride.
Odebode further emphasized that the team’s outstanding performance in Tunis is a clear indication of the athletes’ unwavering commitment to excellence and the effectiveness of the structures in place to nurture their talent. He expressed confidence in the team’s trajectory and reiterated the PCN’s commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to enable the athletes to reach their full potential. He assured the nation that Nigeria’s para-athletes are on a path to even greater success in future competitions, including the upcoming World Championships in New Delhi. The Tunis Grand Prix served as a valuable platform for the athletes to gain experience, refine their skills, and build momentum towards the World Championships.
The success in Tunis has not only boosted the morale of the athletes but has also brought significant positive attention to para-sports in Nigeria. The achievements of the team serve as an inspiration to aspiring para-athletes and demonstrate the transformative power of sports in overcoming adversity. The positive media coverage surrounding the team’s performance helps raise awareness about para-sports and promotes inclusivity within the broader sporting landscape. This increased visibility can lead to greater opportunities for para-athletes, including increased funding, improved training facilities, and greater public recognition.
The remarkable performance of Team Nigeria at the 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Tunis is a testament to the growing strength and potential of para-sports in the country. It signifies a bright future for Nigerian para-athletes and reinforces their position as strong contenders on the global stage. The success in Tunis has set a high bar for future competitions and has ignited a sense of anticipation and excitement for the upcoming World Championships in New Delhi. With continued support and investment, Nigeria’s para-athletes are poised to achieve even greater heights and continue to inspire the nation with their dedication, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.
