The Paris 2024 Paralympics have concluded, marking a significant milestone as it was the first time the city hosted this prestigious event. Over the course of the Games, which began with an opening ceremony on August 28, 2024, approximately 4,400 athletes from around the globe showcased their skills across 22 different sports, competing for a total of 549 gold medals. The event was characterized by emotional performances and fierce competition among Para-athletes.

On the final day of the Games, the closing ceremony featured various medal events including wheelchair basketball, powerlifting, Para-canoe, and Para-marathon, during which several African athletes made history.

Notably, Nigerian powerlifter Folashade Oluwafemiayo set a new world record, becoming the first Para-athlete to lift an impressive 166 kg. This remarkable achievement not only earned her a gold medal in the women’s category over 86 kg but also marked her as a two-time Paralympic champion, contributing to Nigeria’s total of seven medals at the 2024 Paralympics.

However, Nigeria faced challenges compared to previous years, finishing in the 40th position on the medals table, a drop from their previous standing in Tokyo where they placed 33rd. The medals achieved by Team Nigeria included gold medals from Folashade Oluwafemiayo and Mark Onyinyechi in the Para powerlifting categories, as well as silver and bronze medals in other events.

As the 2024 Paralympics drew to a close, China emerged as the dominant force, topping the medal table with a total of 220 medals—94 gold, 76 silver, and 50 bronze—reflecting their outstanding athletic performances throughout the Games. The event highlighted both the triumphs and struggles of athletes from all nations, reinforcing the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines the Paralympic movement.

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