The 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championship concluded with a resounding victory for Nigeria, as Matthew Kuti and Ajoke Ojomu clinched the men’s and women’s singles titles respectively, solidifying Nigeria’s dominance in the regional table tennis scene. The championship, held in Lagos, Nigeria, served as a qualifying event for the upcoming 2025 African Championships scheduled for Kigali, Rwanda. Kuti and Ojomu’s victories capped off a remarkable performance by the Nigerian team, which swept both the men’s and women’s singles and team events, demonstrating their superior skill and strategic prowess.
Matthew Kuti’s journey to the men’s singles title was marked by resilience and determination. Facing his compatriot, Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, in the final, Kuti initially stumbled, losing the first set 11-9. However, he quickly regained his composure and unleashed a barrage of powerful shots, overwhelming Abdulfatai in the subsequent sets to secure a 4-1 victory (9-11, 11-6, 11-7, 11-7, 11-7). This triumph marked Kuti’s second consecutive men’s singles title at the regional championship, solidifying his status as a dominant force in West African table tennis. Kuti’s victory, coupled with Abdulfatai’s impressive run to the finals, underscored the depth of talent within the Nigerian men’s team.
Ajoke Ojomu’s victory in the women’s singles final was equally impressive. She faced another Nigerian, Sukurat Aiyelabegan, in a match that showcased the strength of the Nigerian women’s team. Ojomu displayed exceptional control and precision, dictating the pace of the game from the outset. She swept Aiyelabegan aside in a decisive 4-0 victory (11-7, 11-8, 11-5, 14-12), claiming her first regional singles title after finishing as runner-up in the previous two editions. Ojomu’s relentless attacks and strategic play proved too much for Aiyelabegan to handle, cementing Ojomu’s place at the top of the women’s rankings in the region.
Nigeria’s dominance extended beyond the individual events, as they also triumphed in both the men’s and women’s team competitions. The women’s team, spearheaded by Ojomu, delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in the final. Their synchronized play and strategic rotations allowed them to control the match from start to finish, leaving their opponents with little chance to mount a comeback. Similarly, the men’s team, comprising Taiwo Mati, Matthew Kuti, and Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, showcased their collective strength in a resounding 3-0 victory against the Ivory Coast. Their seamless teamwork and individual brilliance ensured a comprehensive win, further emphasizing Nigeria’s supremacy in the region.
The success of the Nigerian teams at the 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championship highlights the country’s growing prominence in the sport. The consistent performance of players like Kuti and Ojomu, coupled with the emergence of new talents, has established Nigeria as a force to be reckoned with in African table tennis. Their comprehensive victories in both the individual and team events serve as a testament to their dedication, training, and strategic approach to the game. The Nigerian team’s performance sets a high bar for other nations in the region and signals their intent to compete at the highest level on the continental stage.
The 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championship, hosted in Lagos, was lauded by Ferdinand Sounou, Vice President of the ITTF Africa West region, for its successful organization and the increasing competitiveness of the players. The tournament served as a crucial stepping stone for players aiming to qualify for the 2025 African Championships in Kigali, Rwanda. The event not only showcased the talent within the region but also provided valuable experience for the players, preparing them for the challenges of competing at a higher level. The Nigerian team’s impressive showing at the regional championship positions them as strong contenders for the continental title in Kigali, where they will face the best players from across Africa.
