The Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall in Lagos has come alive once again as 30 clubs from across Africa — including teams from Togo and the Benin Republic — compete for top honours and a prize pool of ₦5.5 million at the second edition of the Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championship.
The three-day event, hosted at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, is the first-ever mixed team table tennis tournament on the continent. It is the brainchild of Senator Mukhail Abiru, who represents the Lagos East Senatorial District, and it aims to blend sportsmanship, innovation, and youth empowerment in one unique sporting platform.
During the press briefing to declare the tournament open, Senator Abiru highlighted that the championship reflects his belief that sports can be a powerful tool for developing leadership, creativity, and focus among young people.
“Our vision of youth development goes beyond formal education,” he explained. “The same traits that shape innovators — discipline, teamwork, and resilience — are also what define great athletes. That’s why this championship was created: to promote inclusion, excellence, and community spirit through sports.”
The President of the African Table Tennis Federation, Enitan Oshodi, applauded Abiru’s continuous investment in youth and sports, describing the senator’s effort as “a game changer for African table tennis.”
He added, “This championship is not just another tournament; it’s a legacy project that will inspire the next generation of African stars. We’re thrilled to see this level of commitment and excitement for the game.”
In the same vein, Nigeria Table Tennis Federation President, Adesoji Tayo, hailed the championship as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing reputation as a leader in African table tennis.
“Last year, Nigeria set a new benchmark by hosting the first mixed team event on the continent,” Tayo said. “It demonstrates our readiness for major global tournaments like the World Mixed Team Cup in Chengdu next year and the 2028 Olympics. This event will help us scout and develop future champions.”
This year’s edition brings together a dynamic mix of elite players and emerging talents, promising intense rallies, high energy, and a celebration of unity through sport.
