By ABIODUN LAWAL

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the First West Africa Para Games has disclosed that no fewer than 700 athletes have arrived Ogun for the games.

The Committee Chairman, Mr Victor Achakpo, stated this at a news conference in Abeokuta on Friday.

Achakpo noted that preparations were already underway for the games to commence, adding that the host country, Nigeria, would be fielding 190 athletes.

He added that the organisers had made comprehensive arrangements for accommodation, venues, transportation, medical services, security, and the feeding of all athletes.

The LOC chairman assured the athletes of their safety throughout the games, adding that Nigeria and Ogun state are safe.

He said that 16 West African counties with two invited countries would be participating in the games and promised participants of a free and fair games.

“The whole West African countries are participating with two invited countries, DR Congo and Cameroon.

“We are good to go; we already have over 700 athletes in Ogun state. The host country has over 190 persons and we have taken care of accommodation, venues, transportation, medicals and security.

“I want to assure everyone that Nigeria and Ogun is safe. Sports is one thing that unites any nation and sports will unite us. When I say sports, I am talking about para sports now,” he said.

Mr Sunday Odebode, the President, Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, appreciated Ogun state for accepting to host the games in spite of the challenges.

Odebode also commended the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Sheu Dikko, Director General, Bukola Olopade and African Paralympics committee for making sure Nigeria host the first edition of the games.

“The West African para games is for the development of the west coast. The common wealth is by the corner and this para games has given them another leverage.

“But today you will see ability in disability when you watch the opening ceremony today between Nigeria and Benin Republic as regard the amputee football,” he said.

The Secretary-General, Africa Paralympic Committee , Mr Ignatius Elletey, also commended the Federal Government and the Nigeria Paralympic Committee for hosting the maiden edition of the games.

He described the gesture as “a historic and impactful contribution to the development of para sports on the continent”.

“Let us use the power of sports to make persons with disabilities visible. Let us work to ensure they have access to sports and the opportunity to live fulfilling lives,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the games scheduled to commence on Friday will end on Dec. 4. (NAN)