Bayelsa Prepares to Defend Title at 2026 Para Sports Festival

The 2026 National Para Sports Festival is set to take place in Abuja from March 26 to April 3, 2026, with Bayelsa State aiming to defend its title as the reigning champion. The state has assembled a contingent of 244 athletes and 58 support staff, fully prepared to compete at the highest level.

Bayelsa has won the previous two editions of the festival and is targeting a historic third consecutive national title. Baraladei Daniel Igali, the head of the National Sports Commission, expressed confidence in the team and commended the leadership for their efforts in mobilizing the contingent.

Governor Douy Diri urged the athletes to reciprocate the support from the administration with outstanding performances. The festival will feature approximately 3,000 athletes from 36 states competing across 15 different sports, making it one of the largest gatherings of para-athletes in Nigeria's history.

The opening ceremony will take place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, with high-profile dignitaries expected to attend.