In a resounding testament to the country’s rising status in global para-sports, Team Nigeria has been showered with commendations by the National Sports Commission (NSC) following its remarkable performance at the recently concluded ITTF World Para Future Tournament in Amman, Jordan. The Nigerian contingent left an indelible mark on the global stage, finishing among the top three teams at the championship held from April 13 to 15, 2025.
The Nigerian team put up a spirited display against some of the sport’s traditional heavyweights including Germany, Iran, and host nation Jordan. With five gold, seven silver, and two bronze medals to its name, Nigeria stood tall in a competitive field that featured countries such as Iraq, India, Indonesia, Cyprus, Kuwait, Egypt, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. Only Egypt and South Africa joined Nigeria as representatives from the African continent, but it was the West African powerhouse that dominated the continent’s presence.
NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the team’s feat as a shining example of what can be achieved when proper planning meets passion and belief. According to him, the athletes have once again demonstrated that Nigerian sports—when given the right support—can not only compete but also excel globally. “Our para-athletes have continued to inspire the nation. Their performance in Jordan shows that with the right support, Nigerian sports can soar on any global stage,” Dikko remarked.
Equally moved by the display in Amman, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the resilience and brilliance shown by the players, technical crew, and the leadership of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN). He particularly lauded PCN President, Sunday Odebode, for his unwavering commitment to the development and inclusion of athletes with disabilities in the nation’s sporting agenda. “This is indeed a proud moment for Nigeria. The level of dedication displayed by this team, from the athletes to the coaching staff, reflects a collective pursuit of excellence,” Olopade stated.
Among the standout performers was veteran para-athlete Olufemi Alabi, who secured Nigeria’s first gold medal in the Men’s Class 10 singles after defeating Iraq’s Shafeeq Hikmat in a tense final. Faith Obazuaye continued the medal haul, claiming the gold in the Women’s Class 9-10 category with a convincing win over fellow Nigerian and teammate Isau Ogunkinle. In another all-Nigerian final, Bolawa Akingbemisilu triumphed over Kehinde Lawal to take the top spot in the Men’s Class 4-5 event.
Nigeria’s excellence extended to the team competitions. The formidable pair of Abiola Adesope and Tajudeen Agunbiade delivered a strong performance to clinch gold in the Men’s Doubles Classes 14-18, securing a 3-1 victory on the tournament’s final day. In a fitting end to the championship, the duo of Alabi and Obazuaye combined forces once again to dominate the Mixed Doubles Classes 17-18, adding another gold to Nigeria’s impressive tally.
National coach Nosiru Sule could not hide his pride, describing the athletes’ output as a reflection of their immense talent and discipline. He noted that the result in Jordan reinforces the depth of quality in Nigerian para table tennis and appealed for increased support as the team sets its sights on the upcoming African Championships and World Championships later this year. “Our athletes have shown exceptional talent and dedication throughout this tournament. Their hunger to succeed is remarkable, and with more investment, Nigeria can do even more on the world stage,” Sule emphasized.
While other African nations struggled to leave a mark—Egypt managed only a single gold medal through Sayed Youssef in the Men’s Singles Classes 6-7—Nigeria’s dominance underscored its status as a continental leader in para table tennis. The team’s all-round brilliance throughout the three-day event reaffirmed Nigeria’s growing influence and reputation in global para-sports.
This latest achievement adds to Nigeria’s expanding legacy in para-athletics and further reflects the country’s potential to lead not just in Africa, but on the world stage when provided with strategic backing, competent leadership, and unwavering national support.
