Over 250 Kids and Adults to Participate in the MGBF Lagos Basketball Programme

A wave of excitement is set to sweep through Ilupeju, Lagos, as the Mani Giving Back Foundation gears up for an exhilarating basketball program from July 24 to 28. This dynamic event is expected to draw in over 250 children and adults, with and without disabilities, alongside 30 dedicated coaches, all driven by a shared passion for the game.

The mastermind behind this inspiring initiative is Michael Ani, a celebrated Germany-based coach and Nigeria’s revered two-time Special Olympics World Games Head Coach. In collaboration, Ani with his esteemed team, has meticulously crafted a series of basketball games, skill clinics, and motivational sessions, all led by top-tier athletes and coaches.

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“This event is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of dreams,” Ani passionately shared with The PUNCH. “It’s not just about sports; it’s about igniting a fire within young hearts, showing them that no obstacle is insurmountable.”

A significant focus of the clinic will be on children with disabilities, underscoring Ani’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive Nigerian society. Reflecting on his journey, Ani recounted, “In 2008, I answered a profound call to volunteer, coaching children and adults with disabilities in Nigeria. Back then, opportunities were scarce, and the weight of societal stigma was heavy. It became my mission to transform this landscape.”

Highlights on Mani Giving Back Basketball Foundation

In partnership with Special Olympics Nigeria, Ani pioneered the first basketball team for people with disabilities. “I scouted and trained over 50 players with diverse abilities, gearing them up for the World Games,” he revealed. Even after relocating to Germany to further his basketball career, Ani’s dedication to this cause never waned. Since 2010, he has returned annually to Nigeria, conducting transformative basketball and coaching sessions.

“We launched the Unified Games, a revolutionary approach that unites athletes with and without disabilities, promoting inclusivity and teamwork. Our hard work bore fruit as we proudly represented Nigeria at the World Games in Los Angeles in 2015 and Abu Dhabi in 2019,” Ani recounted with pride.

The journey has been arduous yet incredibly fulfilling. The Mani Giving Back Foundation continues to be a pillar of support, offering training and donating kits, scholarships, and essential amenities to Nigerians. This clinic is more than an event; it’s a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a catalyst for change in the quest for a more inclusive society.