US Consulate supports development of wheelchair American football in Nigeria
The US Consulate General in Lagos supported the development of wheelchair American football in Nigeria, working with the American Football Elite Development (AFEDEV) organization during a sports exhibition. The event was held on Thursday at the outdoor basketball court of the National Institute of Sports, located on the grounds of the National Stadium in Lagos.
As Premium Times Nigeria reports, wheelchair athletes, sports officials, diplomats, representatives of universities, companies and the public took part in the event. The consulate provided participants with team jerseys, balls and refreshments, while its press service supported coverage of the event.
Exhibition games
Three exhibition games were held as part of the event, involving Iron Invicta, Liberty Pioneer, Lagos Dynamos and Atlantic Chargers. Liberty Pioneer won both of its matches: it defeated Iron Invicta 13–0 in the first game and Atlantic Chargers 10–3 in the third. Earlier, Atlantic Chargers beat Lagos Dynamos 7–0.
Representatives of the consulate and the broader US diplomatic team also took part in the event. According to the publication, this was intended to underline support for sport as a platform for inclusion, interaction and people-to-people connections.
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AFEDEV's further plans
Representatives of the German Embassy in Lagos, the University of Lagos, Lagos State University and the National Institute of Sports attended the event. Sports officials from other Nigerian states watched the games and considered introducing similar initiatives in their regions.
AFEDEV Executive Director Ojaide Ufoma Lawrence said that the organization plans to discuss with other states and partners the training of athletes, coaches and sports officials, as well as the organization of future exhibitions and competitions. AFEDEV also intends to establish a super league in which athletes will be able to compete for titles and seek participation in international competitions.
Event partners included MILO, Pocari Sweat, Sports Assist, SHOWTIME Nemsia Studio, UOU and AZOGI. AFEDEV's programs include flag football, contact American football, wheelchair American football, training for athletes, coaches and sports officials, as well as community and youth initiatives.
