By Abigail Philip David
Nigeria has been granted full membership in the World Wheelchair Rugby Federation (WWRF), marking a significant milestone for the country’s para-sports community. This recognition comes after Nigeria’s compliance with all statutory requirements of the international body.
The announcement was made in a letter dated December 4, 2024, signed by Alison Bridge, Head of Administration at the WWRF. According to the letter, provisional approval was initially granted on July 9, 2024, and full membership was confirmed during the WWRF’s General Assembly.
Two Years of Dedicated Efforts
Fred Edoreh, Secretary of the Nigeria Wheelchair Rugby Association, highlighted the relentless efforts of Suleiman Isah, President of Nigeria Wheelchair Rugby and Secretary-General of the Nigeria Paralympic Committee, in achieving this milestone. For over two years, Isah and his team worked to establish wheelchair rugby in Nigeria and meet the international body’s membership requirements.
Edoreh commended Isah’s vision for expanding para-sports opportunities in Nigeria, stating:
“Finally and happily, Nigeria has been granted full membership of the World Wheelchair Rugby Federation. It has been a long journey, and we must commend Suleiman Isah for pursuing the process to realization.”
Championing Para-Sports Development
Isah’s contributions to para-sports extend beyond wheelchair rugby. As former President of the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation, he spearheaded efforts to elevate the visibility of Nigeria’s para-athletes on the global stage.
– In 2018, he facilitated Nigeria’s participation in the Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico, the team’s first-ever appearance, after missing three previous editions due to financial constraints.
– Under his leadership, Nigeria competed in the Africa Amputee Football Nations Cup in Angola in 2019, finishing second, and also participated in the 2021 edition in Tanzania.
A Bright Future for Nigerian Para-Athletes
With this achievement, Nigeria’s para-sports community is poised for greater opportunities on the international stage. Edoreh expressed optimism:
“The sky is now the limit for as many para-sportspeople in Nigeria. This membership is a testament to our commitment to providing international sports opportunities for persons living with disabilities.”
The recognition is expected to enhance the development of wheelchair rugby and other para-sports in Nigeria, further empowering athletes and strengthening the country’s presence in global competitions.
