Abuja: The FAME Foundation has called on government institutions, private organisations, development partners, and the media to scale up investments in parasports and inclusive sporting infrastructure. The Executive Director, FAME Foundation, Arabinrin Atoyebi, made the call on Monday in Abuja, while briefing newsmen on the forthcoming HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament to Celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Atoyebi emphasized that investing in parasports would create more inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities. She highlighted that the tournament, organised in partnership with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), would spotlight the importance of building a disability-inclusive Nigeria. The event aims to advance this year’s global theme, which calls for societies to enable every individual to participate fully and thrive.
Atoyebi stated, “Nigeria’s progress is tied to how well we include all our people. Millions of Nigerians live with disabilities, and too many, especially girls and women, still face barriers that limit their access to education, employment, a good life, and even sports.” She further explained that the 2025 HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament will provide girls and women with disabilities a national platform to showcase their talent and resilience, with the event scheduled to take place at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
The tournament will feature various events, including 100 metres finals for visually impaired athletes, athletes with cerebral palsy, and deaf athletes. Additionally, there will be a discus throw for amputees and polio survivors, and a shot put for amputees and Lexul athletes. Atoyebi remarked, “Each event is designed to give every athlete a fair opportunity to shine. We invite everyone to come and witness these incredible athletes in action.”
Expressing gratitude to the FIRS for its partnership, Atoyebi described the service as a committed champion of inclusion. “By supporting this tournament, FIRS demonstrates leadership and a commitment to national progress. This partnership is instrumental, and we look forward to sustaining this collaboration for even greater impact,” she stated. As preparations for Dec. 3 continue, Atoyebi affirmed their solidarity with every young woman competing, noting, “Their courage opens doors for others, and their resilience reminds us of what is possible when opportunity meets determination.”