NIGERIA

GWB partnering with DISF

Our Objectives

1. Raise Awareness

Run awareness campaigns on disability, inclusion, and the power of mixed-ability sport to challenge stereotypes and change public perceptions.

Our campaigns will demonstrate what is possible when people with and without disabilities participate together.

2. Train Coaches, Officials, and Volunteers

Deliver training for coaches, referees, classifiers, volunteers, and sports administrators in inclusive and adaptive sport.

Our training will have a particular focus on wheelchair basketball and will help participants create safe, welcoming, and professional sporting environments.

3. Influence Policy

Work with government agencies, relevant ministries, sports authorities, and the Nigeria Paralympic Committee to implement and fund disability-inclusive sports policies.

We will advocate for inclusion to become a central part of national and state sports development.

4. Improve Accessibility

Support and fund improvements that enable more people to participate in sport.

These improvements may include:

  • Court adaptations
  • Ramps and accessible entrances
  • Accessible toilets and changing areas
  • Safe wheelchair access
  • Accessible transport
  • Inclusive training facilities

Our aim is to ensure that everyone can travel, train, and compete safely.

5. Host Inclusive Sports Events

Organise inclusive sports events and integrated wheelchair basketball competitions for:

  • Men
  • Women
  • Junior athletes
  • Community teams
  • School teams
  • Emerging and experienced players

These events will promote participation, teamwork, friendship, visibility, and competitive development.

6. Provide Sports Equipment

Source, maintain, and distribute sports wheelchairs and other essential equipment.

Providing equipment for both disabled and able-bodied athletes will allow more people to experience mixed-ability wheelchair basketball together.

7. Advocate for Sustainable Funding

Advocate for dedicated funding for inclusive sport in:

  • Schools
  • Communities
  • Local sports clubs
  • State programmes
  • Public sports budgets
  • Athlete development programmes

Sustainable funding is essential for creating long-term opportunities and expanding inclusive sport across Nigeria.

8. Identify Emerging Talent

Organise talent identification programmes to discover and support emerging male, female, and junior athletes with and without disabilities.

Promising athletes will be connected to coaching, mentorship, equipment, competitions, and further development opportunities.

9. Develop Athlete Pathways

Create a clear progression route that supports athletes from grassroots participation to elite international competition.

Community Clubs

Athletes begin through schools, community clubs, introductory sessions, and local mixed-ability programmes.

State Teams

Promising athletes receive advanced coaching and opportunities to represent their states.

National Teams

High-performing athletes may progress to national training, selection, and competition.

IWBF Africa

Athletes can continue their development through competitions connected to the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation in Africa.

Paralympic Games

Eligible athletes can work towards representing Nigeria at the highest level of Paralympic competition.

Community Clubs → State Teams → National Teams → IWBF Africa → Paralympic Games