Deaf sports stakeholders in Nigeria are gearing up for a protest today in Lagos, calling out the exclusion of their events from the National Sports Festival (NSF). The decision to leave out deaf sports has sparked controversy, with many in the community claiming it amounts to discrimination.
According to Punch Newspapers, the protest is set to take place today, October 19th. The deaf sports community has voiced their concerns that their events have been overlooked in the NSF, which is a significant national event showcasing various sports disciplines.
The exclusion of deaf sports has been met with criticism, with many pointing out the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports. The NSF is a platform for athletes to compete at the highest level and represent their states, and the omission of deaf sports has been seen as a missed opportunity to showcase the talents of deaf athletes.
The National Sports Festival is organized by the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and the National Sports Commission (NSC). It was not immediately clear why deaf sports were excluded from this year’s festival, and both the NOC and NSC have not yet responded to requests for comment.
This protest comes at a time when the Nigerian government is emphasizing the importance of sports and physical activity in the lives of Nigerian youth. The exclusion of deaf sports from the NSF raises questions about the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports.
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