Para Powerlifting Inclusion Games

FAME Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), partnered with the French Embassy in Nigeria to host a two-day Para Powerlifting Inclusion Games in Lagos, in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The event kicked off on 2 December, 2023, at the National Stadium Surulere, Lagos; Para Powerlifting Gym and wrapped up on December 3rd, 2023.

The competition featured 8 female professional para-athletes from diverse regions across the country. It offered a platform for women with disabilities to display their talents and capabilities in sports while advocating for inclusion and equal opportunities, particularly emphasizing the inclusion of women with disabilities, especially para-athletes.

The competition was divided into two sessions: the Lower Weight and Heavy Weight. Four participants competed at the Lower Weight session and four at the Heavy Weight session.

The event welcomed esteemed figures including Mr. Chiemeka Charles Ezenwanne, the President of the Para Powerlifting Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Ahmed Abdullahi Libata, General Secretary PPFN, along with two distinguished guest speakers, Mr. Peter Omagbemi, a sports administrator and Coach Oluwakemi Oyebola.

Additionally, it honored other significant guests, including Ketty Regis, the Representative of the French Embassy, Madam Ilka Medina, a French lecturer at the National Institute of Sport, and Madam Latifah Wells, a Development Consultant and a close associate of FAME Foundation.

On the first day of the Games, athletes engaged in a qualifier, participating in their individual sessions. Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, the Executive Director of FAME Foundation, delivered the opening remarks, expressing gratitude to the French Embassy for their partnership and acknowledging the President of PPFN and officials for their support in making the event possible.

Following this, the Head Coach of the Para Powerlifting Gym provided a concise introduction for each athlete before the commencement of the competition. During the sessions, female athletes showcased their strength by lifting weights ranging from 45kg to 145kg.

On the concluding day of the event, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, speakers took the stage to emphasize the significance of inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Coach Oluwakemi Oyebola, the first speaker, celebrated the Para-athletes, emphasizing their remarkable abilities and urging them to take pride in themselves and maintain confidence in all their endeavors.

Following this, Mr. Peter Omagbemi, the second speaker, reiterated the importance of inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. He highlighted their strong work ethic and emphasized the need for fair and equal treatment, expressing a change in his perception of para-athletes and their admirable qualities.

The athletes engaged in rounds of weightlifting, culminating in the selection of three deserving winners representing each session of the competition. These winners were presented with medals. The winners of the Lower Weight session were awarded their medals by the Executive Director of FAME Foundation, while those in the Heavy Weight category were honored by Ketty Regis, the representative of the French Embassy in Nigeria.

The event came to a conclusion with all participants obtaining certificates of participation and cash prizes