With less than 50 days to the commencement of the 2025 Deaflympics, uncertainty continues to surround Nigeria’s participation in the global sporting event for athletes with hearing impairment.
Stakeholders in the deaf sports community have raised concerns over the silence of the National Sports Commission (NSC) regarding Nigeria’s preparations and clearance from the World Deaflympics Committee. Unlike the Olympics, where early camping, funding, and structured preparation are standard, there has been no indication of readiness for the Deaflympics.
Observers have questioned why the Sports Commission has not made any official statement despite the urgency of the situation. “We are less than 50 days away and nothing is being said about Nigeria’s participation. Are we going to the Deaflympics or not?” one stakeholder asked.
Recalling past experiences, they noted that at the last Deaf World Cup soccer competition, Nigeria attended with only 13 players. On their return, they were received at the airport by the then Minister of Sports, who promised to uplift deaf sports after listening to their complaints. However, those promises remain unfulfilled following the transition from the ministry to the current Sports Commission.
Further highlighting Nigeria’s prospects, stakeholders pointed to the just-concluded ECOWAS Deaf Athletics Championship held in Abuja on August 30, 2025, which also served as the Deaflympics trials. At the event, Bayelsa athlete Tamarau-tare Orderly, from Ayamasa in Ekeremor Local Government Area, emerged as Nigeria’s brightest hope by winning the 100m in 10.45 seconds and the 200m in 21.34 seconds. With such outstanding performance, Orderly stands a real chance of securing two gold medals for Nigeria if the country attends the Deaflympics.
“This is why we must rally support to ensure his participation,” one of the concerned voices stressed. “With timely intervention from the Chairman of the NSC, Alhaji Dikko, this challenge can be overcome. I strongly appeal for action so our athletes are not denied the opportunity to make the nation proud.”
Stakeholders argue that the continued neglect of deaf athletes undermines Nigeria’s commitment to inclusivity in sports and risks dampening the morale of athletes who have consistently represented the country against all odds.