Wheelchair Basketball departs Lagos for 2023 African Para Games qualifier

Wheelchair Basketball departs Lagos for 2023 African Para Games qualifier

By Admin

The Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball team (NWBF) will depart Lagos today (Thursday) for Accra to attend the 2023 International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) African Para Games qualifier.

The 2023 International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) African Para Games qualifier is scheduled for 12th to 14th May in Accra, Ghana.

The delegation comprises 8 players and 4 officials led by the Secretary General, Aliyu Mohammed.

The players are: Mohammed Muritala, Bailey Segun, Akinde Oluwaseun, Emmanuel Adetayo, Ajibade Kayode, Ridwan Abubakar, Ojeleye Sefiu and Taiwo Durowoju while the officials are, Olayinka Sofolahan (coach), Oluwakemi Adetinde (coach) and Opeyemi Ogunleye (Referee).

The Secretary General of NWBF, Aliyu Mohammed hailed the President for ensuring Nigeria attends the qualifier and boosting the chances of making the podium finish.

Mohammed said that if not for the gesture, the country’s contingent might have not made the tournament.

He said, “The players are indeed thankful to the newly elected President, Seyi Johnson for his quick intervention.

"We were almost stranded before the intervention. Without the timely response, the men's national team would have been incapacitated and miss the chance of showcasing their skills to the world.

“This gesture has motivated the players and we are sure something positive will happen in Ghana.”

The Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball team will face hosts Ghana, Gambia and Senegal.

However, the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball women's team has secured an automatic qualification.