Musibau Shittu sports academy opens in Lagos to train and empower young disabled athletes across multiple para-sports
Nigerian wheelchair basketball star Musibau Shittu has launched the FOLMUS Disabled Sports Academy in Lagos, aiming to provide opportunities for young disabled athletes that he lacked during his early career.
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The academy, based at the National Institute for Sports, supports athletes across multiple para-sports beyond wheelchair basketball.
“The academy is my way of giving back,” Shittu told reporters.
“Sports changed my life, and I want others to experience the same.”
Shittu highlighted the challenges many disabled youths face, including limited family support and societal doubts about sports as a viable path.
“We don’t have an official office yet, but we train athletes and help them build confidence,” he said. He noted that one academy player recently won two gold medals in badminton at the West African Games in Abeokuta.
Operating largely on Shittu’s personal income and small contributions from friends, the academy continues to grow despite minimal funding.
Shittu appealed to the Lagos State Government and corporate organisations for partnerships to expand training and competition opportunities.
“Many talented athletes remain undiscovered because Nigeria does not have a strong system for identifying and developing para-sports talent,” Shittu said.
“With proper support, Nigeria can become a leader in Africa. We have the talent. We just need to invest in the future.”
Segun Bailey, a basketball player and gym instructor, currently serves as the academy’s manager, helping coordinate training and mentoring programs.
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The FOLMUS Disabled Sports Academy reflects Shittu’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian para-athletes while promoting inclusivity and resilience through sport.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
