Sports
Ist National Para-Sports Games set to Commence, as State Sports Directors Converge in Abuja
In what represents another major milestone for sports in Nigeria, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, under the leadership of Honourable Sunday Dare has finalized plans for the staging of the first National Para-Sports Games in Nigeria, tagged “Abuja 2022” .
The historic sport event is scheduled to take place in April 2022, with Abuja as the host city, as the Organizing Committee puts icing on preparations for the landmark event.
With the number of events already sorted, amongst other things deliberated by the State Director of Sports include final inspection of facilities and venues, athletes’ classification, final sorting of accommodation for athletes and officials.
With Nigeria’s excellent performances in international para-sports events, the honourable Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare restated that para sports must be given the earned attention it deserves alongside the right environment for athlete to thrive, while bringing glory to the country at large.
With Nigeria winning a total of 36 gold medals, 18 silver medals and 16 bronze medals at the Paralympic Games from 1992 till date, para-athletes must be given the platform to hone their skills and for the next generation of talents to find fulfilment through games like these.
The Games will feature para-athletes from all around Nigeria, as various events will be held across no less than 15 para sports between the 9th -16th of April 2022.
Sports
Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo Honored with SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sports
Cyril Ogar
Benue-born sports administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for recognizing his contribution to sports development in Benue State and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Atoo, who serves as President of Flight Sports Nigeria Limited and Founder of Flight Football Club, Gboko, received the honour during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja.
Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Atoo described the recognition as a “special motivation and encouragement” to continue contributing to sports growth across the country.
“I’m very happy and honoured. This award means a lot to me because it serves as motivation and encouragement. It’s something very special and not something I take lightly,” he said.
A respected sports administrator, CEO, and humanitarian, Dr. Atoo has built a sterling reputation for his commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots sports in Benue State.
Through Flight Sports Nigeria Limited, which oversees a range of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, and para sports, he has created opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential and pursue professional careers.
Under his leadership, Flight Football Club Gboko has become a platform for discovering and grooming promising footballers who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally. Beyond football, his investment in volleyball, lawn tennis, para sports, and basketball has revitalized interest and participation in these disciplines within Benue and beyond.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Atoo noted that his involvement in sports began purely out of passion but has now grown into a lifelong mission.
“It all started as a passion, but over time, it has become part of me — a culture,” he stated. “This recognition only drives me to do more for the progress of our youth and the development of sports in Benue State and Nigeria.”
He also extended his appreciation to sports journalists in the state and across Nigeria for their continuous support and constructive criticism, noting that their work plays a vital role in shaping sports administration and inspiring excellence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Atoo reaffirmed his dedication to empowering young athletes and improving sports structures in the region.
> “Going forward, we’re going to achieve great things in Benue. My message to sports lovers, administrators, and players is simple — stay dedicated, keep believing, and together we can make sports a major unifying force in our state and beyond,” he concluded.
The recognition by SWAN adds to Dr. Atoo’s growing list of honours as a sports leader, CEO, and philanthropist whose initiatives continue to drive youth empowerment and sports development across multiple disciplines in Benue State and Nigeria.
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