AfPC names Oluremi Tinubu Grand Patron to champion African Para sport
Nigeria’s First Lady accepted a patronage role supporting the African Paralympic Committee, the African Para Games and wider opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Oluremi Tinubu and Samson Deen with officials at the Grand Patron presentation in Abuja.
Photo credit: African Paralympic Committee / GhanaWeb
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was honoured as Grand Patron in support of the African Paralympic Committee and African Para sport during a meeting with AfPC President Samson Deen in Abuja. MyJoyOnline’s contemporary account places the presentation at the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, on 14 November 2023.
A call for continental support
Deen asked Tinubu to encourage fellow African First Ladies to become patrons of Para sport in their countries. The proposed role linked public advocacy with support for the African Para Games and the organisations developing opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Nigeria’s Sports Development Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, welcomed the honour and praised Tinubu’s work with young people and women. Contemporary accounts describe Deen presenting the recognition during the meeting at the First Lady’s office.
From recognition to athlete opportunity
In the fuller account published by 3News, Deen highlighted continuing needs in finance, equipment, facilities, coaching, classification and participation. He connected the appeal to the establishment of the African Para Games in Accra, explaining the importance of a continental platform where athletes could compete and demonstrate their abilities.
Tinubu welcomed the recognition and expressed support for the athletes and organisations involved, within her capacity. Her response emphasised inclusion and sport’s ability to bring people together.
Samson Deen presents a commemorative plaque to Oluremi Tinubu during the Abuja meeting.
Photo credit: MyJoyOnline; photographer not identified by source
A group photograph published with the November 2023 report of the First Lady’s meeting with the AfPC delegation.
Photo credit: MyJoyOnline; photographer not identified by source