Samson Deen, the dynamic President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), is on a mission that goes far beyond just winning medals. He is orchestrating a paradigm shift in how the continent views, funds, and empowers its para-athletes. His recent visit to Abeokuta, Nigeria, to officially endorse the inaugural West Africa Para Games in September 2025, wasn’t just a routine check-in; it was a powerful declaration of a new vision for African sports. Deen is challenging the status quo, urging a bold redirection of resources and a complete change of mindset.
The Problem: The High Cost of Looking Abroad
For years, African para-athletes have faced an uphill battle. The traditional route to international competition has been a frustrating and expensive journey. Deen is vocal about the inefficiencies and inequities of this system. He highlights the tens of thousands of dollars spent on travel, accommodation, and, most critically, the often-futile pursuit of visas to compete in Europe and North America.
“Why should we spend thousands of dollars on an athlete to travel to Europe, to go and compete in cold weather, and sometimes they don’t even get visas?” Deen asks. This isn’t just an economic question; it’s a matter of dignity and opportunity. An athlete’s dream shouldn’t be held hostage by a foreign embassy. The psychological toll of visa rejections and the logistical nightmares of international travel can sap an athlete’s confidence and ability to perform at their peak. Deen’s argument is simple and compelling: it’s more cost-effective, more empowering, and more strategically sound to invest in Africa itself. By hosting our own world-class events, we keep the money within the continent, create more opportunities for our athletes, and build a sense of pride and ownership.
A New Blueprint: The West Africa Para Games as a Catalyst
The West Africa Para Games is the cornerstone of Deen’s vision. He describes it as a “continental turning point” for inclusive sports diplomacy and empowerment. The event is a test case, a proof of concept for a model that can be replicated across the entire continent. During his inspection of the M.K.O. Abiola Sports Arena, he wasn’t just checking off boxes; he was envisioning a future where African facilities are the standard-bearers for para-sports. He met with local officials, including Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, the Commissioner for Sports in Ogun State, to discuss crucial details like accessibility upgrades and the event’s long-term legacy.
This isn’t just about a single tournament; it’s about establishing a framework for sustainable growth. The games are expected to be a catalyst for new disability inclusion policies, increased regional sports funding, and stronger collaboration among West African nations. The ultimate goal is to reshape public perceptions of disability and create a society where people with disabilities are seen as valuable contributors, leaders, and champions.
A Call to Action for Governments and Businesses
Deen’s message is directed at two key stakeholders: governments and the private sector. He is urging African governments to move beyond mere lip service and make tangible, meaningful investments in para-sports. This means creating dedicated budgets, building accessible facilities, and implementing policies that ensure athletes with disabilities have the same opportunities as their able-bodied peers. He believes that investing in para-sports is a powerful statement about a nation’s commitment to equity and human potential.
He is also making a direct appeal to African business leaders, challenging them to see disability sports not as a charity case but as a strategic investment. By sponsoring para-athletes and events, companies can align themselves with a powerful and inspiring story of resilience and triumph. This kind of sponsorship builds brand loyalty, enhances a company’s reputation, and demonstrates a commitment to corporate social responsibility that genuinely resonates with communities. “When African businesses invest in disability sports,” Deen says, “they invest in hope, in unity, and in the power of human potential.”
The Legacy Beyond the Games
The long-term impact of Deen’s vision is what truly sets it apart. The goal is to build a lasting legacy that goes far beyond the 2025 Games. It’s about creating a continent where para-athletes are celebrated as heroes and where their stories inspire a new generation. It’s about creating pathways for young people with disabilities to get involved in sports from a young age, fostering talent, and building a pipeline of future champions.
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The West Africa Para Games is just the beginning. It represents a shift from a reactive, foreign-dependent model to a proactive, self-reliant one. It is a bold declaration that Africa has the talent, the resources, and the will to host its own world-class events and lead the way in inclusive sports. Samson Deen’s vision is a rallying cry for a more equitable, empowered, and unified Africa—a future where every athlete, regardless of their physical abilities, has the chance to compete, succeed, and inspire.
