Nigeria has once again demonstrated its dominance in para table tennis, securing an impressive five gold medals, along with seven silver and two bronze at the recently concluded ITTF World Para Future in Amman, Jordan.
The remarkable performance has solidified Nigeria’s status as one of the top nations in para table tennis, finishing among the top three teams at the prestigious event.
In a fierce competition featuring countries like Jordan, Iraq, Indonesia, Egypt, Cyprus, Kuwait, India, United Arab Emirates (UAE), South Africa, Germany, and Iran, Nigeria was one of only three African countries to compete. The three-day event saw Nigeria battling for honours and emerging victorious in several categories.
In the singles events, Olufemi Alabi, Faith Obazuaye, and Bolawa Akingbemisilu were the shining stars. Olufemi Alabi claimed Nigeria’s first gold in the Men’s Class 10, while Faith Obazuaye and Bolawa Akingbemisilu clinched their golds in the Women’s Class 9-10 and Men’s Class 4-5 respectively.
The duo defeated their fellow Nigerians Isau Ogunkinle and Kehinde Lawal in thrilling matches to secure their spots atop the podium.
On the final day, April 15, Abiola Adesope and Tajudeen Agunbiade sealed Nigeria’s fourth gold medal with a dominant 3-1 victory in the Men’s Doubles Classes 14-18. The fifth gold came shortly after in the Mixed Doubles Classes 17-18, where Alabi and Obazuaye continued their excellent form, emerging victorious.
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The performance was widely praised by National Coach Nosiru Sule, who commended the players for their dedication and hard work.
He also acknowledged the vital support from the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Umar Dikko and Director General Bukonla Olopade, whose funding helped make the trip to Jordan possible.
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Coach Sule further emphasized the need for continued support as Nigeria prepares for future competitions like the African and World Championships later this year.
In addition to Nigeria’s success, Egypt claimed its only gold medal of the tournament, with Sayed Youssef winning in the Men’s Singles Classes 6-7.
