The forthcoming Mani Giving Back Foundation basketball programme in Ilupeju, Lagos is anticipated to attract more than 250 children, adults (with and without disabilities), and 30 coaches. Organized by Michael Ani, a well-respected figure in Nigeria’s Special Olympics World Games, the event will comprise basketball games, skill clinics, and motivational sessions by experienced coaches and top athletes.
Ani, who is based in Germany, has expressed his eagerness for the event and has emphasized its capacity to inspire young people and demonstrate that overcoming challenges is feasible. He has stressed the significance of prioritizing children with disabilities, underscoring his dedication to promoting inclusivity in Nigerian society.
The impetus behind the clinic originates from Ani’s experiences volunteering and coaching individuals with disabilities in Nigeria. Recognizing the absence of organized sports and opportunities for this demographic, he felt compelled to address the societal stigma and limited prospects they faced.
In partnership with the Special Olympics Nigeria, Ani established the first basketball team for people with disabilities, training and preparing over 50 players for the World Games. Despite relocating to Germany for his professional basketball career, Ani has remained devoted to his mission, consistently returning to Nigeria since 2010 to conduct basketball and coaching training sessions.
Ani’s efforts have not only concentrated on fostering inclusion and teamwork through initiatives such as the Unified Games but have also resulted in Nigeria’s representation at the World Games in Los Angeles in 2015 and Abu Dhabi in 2019. Furthermore, the clinic extends its impact to society by providing coaching, donating kits, and offering scholarships and basic amenities to Nigerians.
The significance of this inclusive basketball clinic lies in its potential to break barriers, inspire individuals, and cultivate a spirit of inclusivity within the community. Ani’s unwavering commitment and dedication to promoting sports and opportunities for people with disabilities serve as a testament to the transformative power of sports in society.
For the latest news on Nigerian and global developments in business, technology, and sports, we encourage you to subscribe to the Guardian for comprehensive coverage delivered directly to your inbox.