The Federal Government will continue to adequately support para-athletes to prepare for the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo, an official said on Thursday in Abuja.
Olusade Adesola, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, disclosed this at a reception for para-athletes.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some para-powerlifting athletes recently emerged victorious at the World Para-Powerlifting Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan.
The team finished second with three gold, two silver and two bronze medals, with two female lifters setting new world records.
Adesola who commended the feat by the athletes said the para-athletes had always brought pride and glory to the country, especially the powerlifters.
“I am delighted by the success of your outing at the championship, which has once again affirmed the nation as a force to reckon within the para-powerlifting sport.
“I wish to state that para-powerlifting athletes and indeed para-athletes in general have been consistent in achieving podium performances in continental and global events,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary said it was in view of this that the Federal Government would continue to support the para-athletes, especially as they prepare for the 2020 Paralympic Games.
“I wish to assure that the Ministry will at all times avail you of necessary support to sustain your winning trend, particularly as we face the 2020 Paralympic Games scheduled to hold in Tokyo,” he added.
Earlier, the President of the Para-Powerlifting Federation, Queen Uboh, had said the feat was achieved through hard work and dedication.
She called for more support from government and especially the private sector to sustain the feat.
Bose Omolayo, the reigning world paralympic champion who broke the world record in the 79kg category, told NAN that she was delighted at achieving the feat.
She called for more support and training facilities for the athletes to do better in the 2020 Paralympics and other competitions.
NAN
