Olu Samuel

Young table tennis players from Kogi State have continued to make the state proud on the continental stage, producing an impressive medal haul for Nigeria at the just-concluded African Youth Table Tennis Championship and African Cup in Accra, Ghana.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the state commissioner for information and communication, Kingsley Fanwo.

He said that the talented youngsters delivered outstanding performances throughout the competitions, showcasing skill, determination and competitive maturity against some of Africa’s finest emerging table tennis players.

“Their achievements have further reinforced Kogi State’s growing reputation as a strong centre for grassroots table tennis development and a breeding ground for future national and continental champions.

At the African Youth Table Tennis Championship, Joseph Victor and Joseph Marvelous combined brilliantly to win the gold medal in the U-15 Boys’ Doubles, while they also teamed up with Samson Joshua and Umar Ayoola of Lagos State to secure a silver medal in the U-15 Boys’ Team Event.”

The commissioner said that Samson Joshua also distinguished himself in the individual events, winning a bronze medal in the U-15 Boys’ Singles and another bronze in the U-15 Boys’ Doubles alongside Umar Ayoola. He further partnered Chinoye Okafor of Abia State to claim bronze in the U-15 Mixed Doubles.

“The impressive medal haul continued at the African Cup, where Samson Joshua added another bronze medal in the U-15 Boys’ Singles, while Ize Aziza Sezuo secured bronze in the U-15 Girls’ Singles.

The performances are the product of years of disciplined training, exposure to competitive tournaments and the commitment of the athletes and their coaches. The coaching team in Kogi State, led by Coach Friday Abah, has been instrumental in nurturing the players and preparing them for the demands of elite competition.” He noted.

The Chairman of the Kogi State Table Tennis Association, Dr. Shaibu D. Mohammed, also deserves commendation for his financial support, motivation and continued investment in grassroots table tennis development. His commitment has contributed significantly to creating opportunities for young players to train, compete and develop their talents.

“The latest achievements have brought pride to Kogi State and Nigeria while providing further evidence that sustained investment in youth sports can produce athletes capable of competing successfully at the highest levels.

With continued support, exposure and proper development, these promising players have the potential to progress to the African, Commonwealth, Olympic and World stages and establish themselves among the leading names in international table tennis.

The feat is therefore not only a celebration of medals, but also a testament to the potential of young Nigerian athletes when talent is matched with quality coaching, structured development and the necessary support.

The players, Coach Friday Abah, Dr. Shaibu D. Mohammed, the Kogi State Table Tennis Association, their families and all those who have contributed to their development deserve commendation for this remarkable achievement.” He added.