More than 25 million people live with disabilities, yet very few have access to recreational opportunities.During a recent community needs assessment,we found many persons with disabilities play football using only their hands, creating their own way of enjoying sports.Most are neglected and excluded from community activities.This project will organize inclusive football tournaments, provide equipment,and create safe spaces for play,giving participants joy, recognition, and a sense of belonging.
Persons with disabilities in Nigeria face exclusion in many aspects of community life. Sports, a key source of joy and togetherness, are often unavailable to them due to lack of adapted equipment, safe spaces, and organized events. During our community discussions, we found many play football with their hands, yet they lack recognition or structured opportunities. This exclusion deepens feelings of neglect and abandonment, leaving many without healthy recreational outlets.
The project will organize football tournaments designed for persons with disabilities, using adapted rules and equipment that fit their abilities. It will provide jerseys, balls, and refreshments, and arrange transportation for participants who often cannot afford it. The tournaments will not only create a safe and structured environment for play but also increase visibility, recognition, and inclusion within the community. This will bring joy, motivation, and belonging to participants.
The tournaments will build stronger social bonds, reduce isolation, and encourage more inclusive community participation. By creating repeated opportunities for persons with disabilities to engage in sports, this project can inspire local leaders and organizations to support recreational spaces & activities. In the long term, participants gain confidence, improved health through physical activity,and a stronger sense of belonging, while communities learn to see abilities instead of disabilities.
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