On Valentine’s Day, the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation (NAFF) took the concept of love beyond traditional gifts with its "Kick for Love" event, held across nine cities, including Lagos, Kaduna, and Jos. The celebration highlighted the resilience and talents of amputee footballers while promoting social inclusion.

NAFF President, Ambassador Paul Maduakor, underscored the event's purpose, stating that it was about fostering unity and giving athletes with disabilities the opportunity to shine. "Football has the power to unite people, and this event shows that love goes beyond romance—it’s about community and opportunity," Maduakor said.

The activities included competitive matches, exhibitions, and interactive sessions, drawing attention to the barriers amputee athletes face while showcasing their determination. Key venues included the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna and Lagos’ Sam Shonibare Playground.

This nationwide celebration demonstrated how football can transcend societal divides, proving that love and strength are displayed not only in grand gestures but also in moments of shared humanity on the field.

Editorial
The "Kick for Love" event organised by the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation is a poignant reminder that sports can serve as a force for social change. As a society, we often celebrate physical achievement without recognizing the diversity of ability, but this initiative is reshaping perceptions of what athletes can achieve regardless of their physical condition.

We believe this event sends a powerful message: the human spirit, when nurtured, can overcome immense challenges. For far too long, athletes with disabilities have remained under the radar, but "Kick for Love" is ensuring their contributions are celebrated. This event not only uplifts participants but also educates society, showing that inclusion makes the sports world richer and more diverse.

It’s time to rethink how we engage with disabled athletes. We must push for more inclusive sporting opportunities, government support, and corporate sponsorships to ensure that events like these become the norm, not exceptions. The success of the Valentine’s Day celebration proves that communities benefit when all athletes, regardless of physical ability, are given their time to shine. Let’s expand on this momentum, creating avenues where love, unity, and football intersect to empower every individual.

Did You Know?

1. 
   
2. Nigeria’s amputee football team, the Special Eagles, competed in their first Amputee Football World Cup in 2018 after years of financial struggles.
   
3. Amputee football matches typically involve seven players per side, including a goalkeeper who must have one arm amputated.
   
4. The first organised amputee was played in the United States in the 1980s before gaining international traction.
   
5. Football has been used in various parts of the world as a rehabilitation tool for amputees, helping them regain confidence and mobility.
   
6. The Amputee Football World Cup, held every four years, is governed by the World Amputee Football Federation and includes teams from over 30 nations.