Folmus to host wheelchair basketball tournament in Lagos

Nigeria’s para-sports scene is set to receive a boost this week. Folmus Wheelchair Basketball Club will host a four-team wheelchair basketball tournament at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.

This two-day event is scheduled for June 11 and 12. It will bring together some of the top wheelchair basketball teams in the country to celebrate resilience, inclusion, and sporting excellence.

The host team, Folmus Wheelchair Basketball Club, will compete against A.D. Bakre Wheelchair Basketball Club, Stacy Dave Care Home, and Flight Transport Wheelchair Basketball Club.

This tournament aims to showcase the rising standard of wheelchair basketball in Nigeria. It will also give athletes another chance to compete and show their skills.

The organisers want to promote adaptive sports. They aim to create more chances for people with disabilities to take part in competitive sports.

Segun Bailey, speaking for the organising committee, stated that the event is more than just a competition. It also aims to raise awareness about the achievements and abilities of para-athletes.

"This tournament is more than a competition. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the talent, determination and competitive spirit that wheelchair basketball athletes bring to sport every day. We want to inspire more people and encourage greater support for disability sports across Nigeria," Mr. Bailey said.

He also mentioned that the competition would help discover talent and strengthen collaboration among wheelchair basketball clubs in Nigeria.

Wheelchair basketball is one of the most popular para-sports worldwide. It mixes athleticism, teamwork, and strategy. In Nigeria, many people are pushing for more investment in the sport. They want to see more competitions, athlete development programs, and better facilities.

The tournament is partly sponsored by American Cola and Aquavie. It will take place at the National Institute for Sports section of the National Stadium in Surulere.

The organisers invite sports fans, stakeholders, and the public to come and support the athletes as they compete for awards.

With the slogan, "Driven by courage, United by basketball," the event aims to show how powerful sports can be for inclusion, empowerment, and community development.