…celebration of hope, movement, Community
The third edition of the Walking Football for Parkinson’s Disease Tournament is set to hold on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Eagle Club, 96 Adeniran Ogunsanya Street, Surulere, Lagos, bringing together hundreds of participants to promote awareness and advocacy through sport.
The tournament kicks off at 9:00 a.m. at the Eagle Club, Surulere, Lagos, and the organisers have extended an open invitation to the public to join what they describe as “a celebration of courage, community, and movement for good.”
Jointly organised by Parkinson’s Africa and the Adewunmi Desalu Parkinson’s Foundation (ADPF), the annual event has become a beacon of hope, shining a light on the powerful role of physical activity in managing Parkinson’s Disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and balance.
Over 400 participants are expected at this year’s event, including people living with Parkinson’s, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, corporate teams, and football enthusiasts.
The organisers describe the tournament as “a perfect blend of sports and advocacy,” using walking football, a slower, low-impact version of the game, to highlight the benefits of exercise and social connection in Parkinson’s care.
Founder of Parkinson’s Africa, Mrs. Omotola Thomas, said the initiative goes beyond competition to embody resilience and togetherness.
“Walking football is not just a tournament, it is a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and the joy of staying active, especially for those living with Parkinson’s. The excitement and participation we see among our Parkinson’s warriors during the tournament and monthly walking football block sessions at the ADPF Centre show that life with Parkinson’s can still be active, purposeful, and joyful.” Thomas said.
The one-day tournament will feature friendly matches between registered teams, awareness sessions where people living with Parkinson’s and caregivers will share personal stories, and community-building activities filled with music, entertainment, and fun for all ages.
According to the organisers, the event also serves as an opportunity for corporate organisations to show support for a social cause that promotes health, dignity, and inclusion.
Participating brands stand to gain visibility among a diverse audience while contributing meaningfully to improving the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s disease.
Both Parkinson’s Africa and the Adewunmi Desalu Parkinson’s Foundation reaffirmed their commitment to building a society where those living with the condition can move freely, access care, and thrive without stigma.
