The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has been appointed as the Grand Patron of the African Para Games and Para Sports in Africa.

The event which took place on November 14, 2023 when the President of the African Paralympic Committee (AFPC) Samson Deen paid a courtesy call to the first lady at the Presidential Villa Aso Rock in Abuja.

Being the First Lady of a power house country in Africa, Samson Deen made a plea to Senator Oluremi Tinubu to use her influence to encourage First Ladies of other African countries to come on board to serve as Patrons for Para Sports in their respective countries.    

"Your Excellency, our mission here today is simple; thus, we request you to be the Grand Patron of our organization and its product, the African Para Games and Para Sports in Africa, as the Grand Patron, to use your platform to bring together all your colleagues, First Ladies in Africa to serve as Patrons for Para Sports in their respective countries. This appointment is informed by your experience in governance, immense contributions, involvement and advocacy for the vulnerable in society in social, humanitarian and economic support. Your dedication to youth development, girl-child education, women empowerment, inspiring young persons to excellence, and Endowment fund for universities are remarkable and unparalleled."

In her response, Senator Oluremi Tinubu acknowledged the importance of the Para Games and Para Sports representing the spirit of inclusion and uniting people of diverse backgrounds.

“The presence of these dedicated officials here today reminds us of the incredible power of sports to inspire, unite, and transform lives. The African Para Games and Para Sports have been instrumental in providing a platform for differently-abled athletes to showcase their exceptional talents, determination, and resilience."

She continued: “I believe that it is our collective responsibility to ensure that every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to shine and be recognized for their skills and achievements. As Grand Patron, I will support these dedicated individuals and organizations involved with the African Para Games and Para Sports to further its mission within my humble capacity.”

While looking forward to the journey of working together with the Para Games and Para Sports, The First Lady was thankful for the recognition given her.

The AfPC is responsible for sports for persons with disabilities/para sports in Africa, the governing body of the Paralympic Movement in Africa with 48 full members. These members are responsible for developing and promoting para-sports in their respective countries and representing their countries in the IPC and the Paralympic programme / Games.

In it's 36 years of existence, three individuals have led the AfPC at different periods: Dr Nabil Salem of Egypt from 1987 to 2010, Leonel da Rocha Pinto of Angola between 2010 and 2021, and Samson Deen, the third leader of the organization, elected two years ago, 2021 in Morocco.