NTTF Consolidates On Regional Dominance

Following Nigeria’s dominance in all seven events at the second ITTF Africa Western Region Championships, President, Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Ishaku Tikon, has pledged that the federation would consolidate on the feat.

For four days, players from Nigeria, Ghana, Benin Republic, Togo, Liberia and Cote d’Ivoire competed in the tournament, with Nigeria clinching all the top medals in the singles (men and women), doubles (men and women), team (men and women) and mixed doubles events.

“I am so delighted that we were able to host the second edition of the regional tournament. The feat achieved by Team Nigeria is a confirmation of our efforts and we hope to consolidate on this by ensuring that the players are monitored and nurtured to become world-beaters. Nigeria, as the big brother in the region, will continue to lift others, with a view to making the region the hub of table tennis in Africa in no distant future,” Tikon said.

Produce world champions
The NTTF president stated: “I believe that with what we have started in the region, we can continue to be competitive in Africa and the world at large.
The region will not relent in its efforts to produce world champions.
There are plans to make the tournament a permanent feature in the ITTF calendar. I must commend all the players and the delegates for their understanding.” 

He assured that the sport agency in collaboration with stakeholders would continue to raise the profile of the sport in the region.

Tikon lauded the Lagos State Government on its support for the event through the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), stressing that Lagos has again proved to be an excellent host as usual.

He also commended the sponsors – (Baba Ijebu Bet, Delanyard, Prime Atlantic and a host of others for keeping faith with table tennis amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

NP/Lateefah/Qasim