A visually impaired athlete, Kekere Oladele has called for more attention given to disabled sports talents, because he believes they can win medals for Nigeria in major international competitions.
The multi-talented youngster, who features in goalball, judo and athletics for physically challenged people, told sports247.ng in an exclusive interview that Nigeria has not tapped into his sector well enough.
He, however, thanked Lagos State Sports Commission for coming up with the 4th Blind Sports Fiesta, which ended on Friday at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.
Oladele declared, “The competition has been exciting, and we are enjoying ourselves. It brings us together in a very unique way.
“We are all excited to be here together and participate in this competition.”
Oladele then spoke about the strides he has made for Nigeria in disabled sports, then stressed that there are others who are equally talented like him.
“Before now, I represented Nigeria at the World Sambo Championship. It had many countries coming together in the game of sambo, and I was the only African representative there.
“I gained a lot of experience, from which I was able to distribute part to my colleagues here.
“It was a programme that showcased what you are made up of and gives a sense of belonging that, even with our condition, we can go places in life,” Oladele buttressed.
He then turned attention to the global stage and declared that he and other physically challenged athletes are ever ready to represent Nigeria.
“If you say we should prepare for the Olympics, we are already starting, and this competition is part of it.
“Going by what our judo chairman, in the person of Mr Sheriff Ahmed, said, with what he is seeing, we are going places.
“He then promised us that, based on what he was seeing, we have champions among us here,” the articulate lad disclosed.
He concluded with a charge to government officials and leaders to step up efforts in motivating and promoting athletes who have talent in special sports.
“I believe that government can get a cue from this event, and any athlete that is identified here should be considered for sponsorship.
“It’s a good thing that talents are spotted here and many are wanted in Europe.
“Any talented athlete that is identified here, give them exposure.
“With that, we can rule the world in any sport we find ourselves … be it the Olympics, the Commonwealth and African Games,” Oladele reassured.
