Nigeria has been grouped with Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and South Africa in Group 15 of the 2026 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships, scheduled to hold in London from April 28th – 10th May.
The draw ceremony took place on Monday at The Shard in Southwark, London, officially launching activities to mark the 100th anniversary of the World Championships.
ITTF President Petra Sörling described the occasion as historic, noting the significance of returning to the city where the tournament began a century ago.
“From London to London, we have come full circle. England has hosted the championships seven times,” she said.
“But returning to where it began makes this centenary edition truly special. This event is already historic, and I am confident it will also be unforgettable.”
Nigeria’s men’s team, led by Quadri Aruna, will face stiff competition from Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and African rivals South Africa.
In the women’s competition, Nigeria, captained by Fatimo Bello, were drawn in Group 11 alongside Australia, Uzbekistan and Wales.
African champions Egypt headline several groups across both events. In the men’s draw, Omar Assar will lead Egypt against Kazakhstan, Turkey and Thailand, while rising star Hana Goda will captain the women’s team against Algeria, South Africa and Syria.
Defending champions China top Group 1 in the men’s competition, alongside hosts England, five-time winners Sweden and the Korea Republic. France, silver medallists at the last edition, are in Group 2 with Japan, Germany and Chinese Taipei.
In the women’s draw, England were grouped with Japan, Germany and France, while China led Group 1 against Korea Republic, Chinese Taipei and Romania. The ceremony was attended by officials of the ITTF and Table Tennis England, athletes and international sports administrators.
Competition will be staged across two venues, with Stage 1a featuring the top eight seeds at the OVO Arena Wembley from May 2 to 3, while Stage 1b runs from April 28 to May 1 at the Copper Box Arena, where 56 teams will battle for places in the main draw.
The London 2026 edition marks 100 years since the first World Championships were held in the city in 1926.