OTAN AYEGBAJU, OSUN STATE – A vibrant blend of competition, community, and entertainment is set to unfold as 50 teams from across Nigeria descend upon Otan Ayegbaju for the fifth edition of the National Table Tennis Championships.
Scheduled to run from April 27 to May 3, the event promises to be the most inclusive and festive edition yet.
Organised by the Osun State Table Tennis Association in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) and sponsored by the Michael and Felicia Alabi Foundation, the tournament will take place at the newly inaugurated Idera Multi-Purpose Hall.
With over ₦11.5 million in prize money on offer, this year’s championship is expected to draw top talent and large crowds.
Teams representing Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Taraba, Nasarawa, Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Delta, Edo, Kwara, Kogi, Ekiti, Katsina, Niger, Zamfara, and hosts Osun have all confirmed participation.
Alongside state contingents, elite clubs such as Aruna Sports Club, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigeria Police Force will also compete.
Participants will battle across a wide range of categories, including men’s and women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and U-15 events.
True to its inclusive spirit, the tournament also features categories for veteran players, para-athletes, and deaf competitors.
“This is not just a tournament—it’s a movement,” said Ayodeji Alabi, Chairman of the Osun State Table Tennis Association and a member of the ITTF Africa Committee.
“We are complementing the efforts of the national federation to discover new talents and build the sport from the grassroots.”
Alabi highlighted the championship’s commitment to youth development and social inclusion, with particular attention given to U-15 players and special needs athletes. According to organisers, approximately 400 to 450 players are expected to participate.
In an innovative twist, the week-long event will feature a dedicated entertainment lounge with live music, comedy shows, and DJ performances, turning the tournament into a community festival.
“Everyone who attends this championship will leave with joy,” Alabi noted. “We are creating a festival of sport and entertainment, ensuring that the environment is exciting for both athletes and spectators.”
To support the players and ensure peak performance, organisers have pledged free accommodation and meals for all athletes throughout the tournament.
“We are going beyond the game to ensure participants are well cared for,” Alabi said. “They will sleep and eat in good condition, which will help bring out their best performances.”
As the countdown begins, excitement is building in Otan Ayegbaju and beyond. With its unique blend of competitive edge, youth focus, and cultural celebration, the 2025 National Table Tennis Championships looks set to elevate the sport to new heights in Nigeria
