… As event births new partnership between office of the SSAP and Africa Unconquered Foundation
*By Lanre Oloyede*
In a resounding message of support, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has announced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to backing Nigeria’s contingent for the 2025 Invictus Games, scheduled to take place in Vancouver, Canada.
Hon. Abba Isa gave the assurance Wednesday while delivering the presidential message of hope to the athletes during the Sports Training Week hosted by the Africa Unconquered Foundation to prepare the national team for success at next year games in Canada.
Charged with the mandate to bring home the medals and do the nation proud, the Senior presidential aide assured the camping athletes at the indoor sports hall of the Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja that the presidency is ready to support them in any way necessary to see them reach their full potential and goals at the competition.
In his address, the SSAP conveyed President Tinubu’s administration’s full commitment to supporting Nigeria’s athletes in their journey, pledging that the presidency stands ready to provide every resource necessary for them to succeed
He stated that the government of President Tinubu acknowledges the sacrifices the para-athletes have made for this country, stressing that their resilience is a testament to the undying spirit of Nigeria, and their journey to the Invictus Games carries the hope and pride of the nation.
The Presidential aide reminded the team on the need to emulate the recent exploits by the Nigerian Paralympic team at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, who despite all odds and injuries won seven medals and brought honour to the country, promising them similar national honour and celebration awaits them if they achieve same feat.
The event also marked the beginning of a new partnership between the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities and the Africa Unconquered Foundation, alongside the Nigerian Invictus Games team.
This partnership aligns with the shared vision to harness the power of sports in healing and empowering Nigeria’s service members, while opening avenues for participation on an international stage.
The SSAP extended his gratitude to the Africa Unconquered Foundation, commending their dedication to promoting sports recovery for injured, wounded, and sick servicemen and women across Africa.
“This gathering is a powerful reminder of the resilience and potential these athletes bring to the world of sports,” he said, while underscoring that his presence was not only to motivate the athletes but to reaffirm President Tinubu’s dedication to inclusivity, especially for Nigeria’s courageous servicemen and women.
“The recent visit by His Royal Highness Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Her Royal Highness Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, added to this momentum. Their visit highlighted Nigeria’s growing support for the Invictus Games—an event founded by Prince Harry to uplift wounded military veterans. “It was an honor to host them in Nigeria as part of their global advocacy for veterans and inclusive sports, underscoring our government’s priority of empowering our servicemen and women,” the SSAP added.
In closing, Hon. Abba Isa expressed profound appreciation to the Africa Unconquered Foundation for organizing the training event, noting the hard work required to prepare for a prestigious event like the Invictus Games. “This training week represents excellence, unity, and our belief in the transformative power of sports,” he said.
Reaffirming his office’s commitment to further partnerships and collaborations, the SSAP vowed to continue supporting and creating opportunities for injured and sick servicemen and women to thrive through sports. Addressing the athletes, he concluded, “May you carry our pride and encouragement as you train, and may you achieve greatness on the world stage.”
Speaking, Mr Derrick Cobbinah, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of the Africa Unconquered Foundation, explained the importance of the Invictus Games training week. The Foundation’s mission is to support the sports recovery journey of wounded, injured, and serving military personnel across Africa, including Nigeria. “This week, we are training 22 injured soldiers, preparing them for the Invictus Games next year in Vancouver, Canada. It’s an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its strength on the world stage, competing alongside other nations.”
Cobbinah emphasized that the Invictus Games concept has a profound impact on participants, especially those who have fought in challenging conditions, such as combating Boko Haram. For many soldiers who have faced trauma and physical injuries, the Games offer renewed hope and empowerment.
“For some, these events have restored a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity—something invaluable as they rebuild from their injuries,” he shared.
Also speaking, Alvin Atsegwasi, the CFO and Co – Founder of Africa Unconquered Foundation said: “This experience reinforces healing, unity, and a strong belief in the support systems around them.”
Looking ahead, Atsegwasi expressed excitement for the future, stating, “Our mission goes beyond the Games; we’re here for continuous development, healing, and growth. Together, we heal, and together, we rise.”
Team Nigeria will compete in five sports at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver: archery, wheelchair basketball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and para volleyball. As they prepare to represent the nation on an international stage, Nigeria is ready to rally behind them, honoring their resilience and the spirit of triumph that defines
