Taiwo Mati’s Return and Nigeria’s Quest for Table Tennis Glory
The Nigerian table tennis scene is buzzing with anticipation as Taiwo Mati, a France-based player, makes his return to the national team. His recall comes ahead of the crucial 2025 African Championships, scheduled to take place in Tunis, Tunisia, from October 12th to 19th. Mati’s inclusion in the squad injects a renewed sense of optimism and strengthens Nigeria’s bid for a dominant performance at the continental event. Having last represented Nigeria at the 2023 ITTF World Championships in Durban, South Africa, Mati’s absence from the national team for two years underscores the significance of his comeback. His strong showing at the 2025 West Regional Championships, where he secured a top-four finish, solidified his place in the national squad. This achievement signals not only his individual prowess but also his readiness to contribute to the team’s overall success.
Mati joins a formidable lineup of Nigerian table tennis stars, including Africa’s top-ranked player, Quadri Aruna. The team also boasts the talents of Olajide Omotayo, the 2019 African Games gold medalist, Matthew Kuti, a two-time West African champion, and the promising Abdulbasit Abdulfatai. This blend of experience and emerging talent positions Nigeria as a strong contender for top honors at the African Championships. On the women’s side, Favour Ojo, Aishat Rabiu, Kabirat Ayoola, and Sukurat Aiyelabegan represent the next generation of Nigerian table tennis. Under the leadership of veteran captain Ajoke Ojomu, the women’s team is also poised to make a significant impact in Tunis.
The 2025 African Championships holds immense importance as it serves as a qualifying tournament for the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships in London, United Kingdom. This edition of the World Championships is particularly significant, marking the centenary of the prestigious event and returning to its birthplace in London. The Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) has emphasized the importance of providing young athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level. Adesoji Tayo, Vice President of the NTTF, highlighted the value of early exposure in developing confident and competitive players. The federation believes that competing against Africa’s best will equip these young talents with the necessary skills and experience to face global opponents. Under the guidance of experienced coaches like Segun Toriola and Dotun Omoniyi, the NTTF is confident that the Nigerian contingent will gain invaluable experience and deliver strong performances in Tunis.
The road to London 2026 promises to be challenging, with Nigeria facing stiff competition from other African powerhouses. In the men’s division, Egypt poses a significant threat, alongside Tunisia, Algeria, Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Uganda, Ethiopia, South Africa, Angola, Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, Benin Republic, DR Congo, and Morocco. The women’s competition will be equally competitive, with Egypt, Benin Republic, Ghana, Ethiopia, Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, Madagascar, DR Congo, Cameroon, South Africa, Angola, Algeria, and host nation Tunisia vying for qualification. The Nigerian teams understand the magnitude of the task ahead and are determined to secure their spots in the centenary World Championships.
Mati’s return to the national team not only bolsters Nigeria’s chances at the African Championships but also symbolizes the country’s commitment to nurturing and developing its table tennis talent. The combination of established stars and emerging players creates a dynamic squad capable of competing at the highest level. As the tournament approaches, the Nigerian table tennis community is filled with hope and anticipation, eager to witness their athletes perform on the continental stage and secure their place among the world’s best in London 2026. The upcoming championships represent a critical stepping stone in Nigeria’s pursuit of table tennis excellence.
The NTTF’s strategic approach of exposing young players to high-level competition demonstrates a long-term vision for the sport’s growth and development in Nigeria. By providing opportunities for these athletes to compete against the best in Africa, the federation is laying the foundation for future success on the global stage. The presence of experienced coaches like Toriola and Omoniyi further enhances the learning and development process for these young players. Their guidance and mentorship will be invaluable as the Nigerian teams navigate the challenges of international competition. The African Championships serves as a proving ground, not just for individual players but for the entire Nigerian table tennis ecosystem.
