As part of activities to mark World Autism Awareness Day, the Chairman of Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Onoriode Oborevwori on Thursday, April 2nd, visited a Paralympic athlete in Lagos, in a move that underscores growing attention to inclusivity and athlete welfare in Delta State.

The visit coincided with a two-day strategic meeting of Delta State para-sports athletes and coaches held from April 1st to 2nd in Lagos, where preparations for the 24th National Sports Festival (NSF), scheduled for Enugu in 2026, took centre stage.

The meeting featured participants from key para-sports disciplines, including deaf table tennis, para-athletics, para-powerlifting and para-table tennis.

Discussions focused on strengthening Delta State’s performance at the forthcoming festival, but stakeholders raised concerns over a number of challenges affecting the sector.

Athletes and coaches also called for improved motivation, including instant cash rewards for gold medalists and performance-based incentives for coaches and officials. 

Responding,  Onos Oborevwori commended the athletes and coaches for their dedication. He reiterated the state’s commitment to developing para-sports and ensuring that athletes are adequately supported to excel.

The meeting ended with renewed determination among stakeholders to reposition Delta State for a strong outing at the 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu.