The seventh ValueJet Lagos Para Table Tennis Championships concluded on Saturday at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, with a display of exceptional talent and fierce competition. Top-ranked Nigerian para-athletes, including Isau Ogunkunle, Bolawa Akingbemisilu, and Faith Obiora, successfully defended their singles titles, reaffirming their dominance in their respective classes. The tournament also witnessed participation from athletes representing Togo and the Benin Republic, broadening the scope of competition and fostering regional camaraderie in the sport. Togo, in particular, made a commendable showing, securing two bronze medals. The event served as a testament to the growing strength and recognition of para table tennis in the region and the positive impact of initiatives like the ValueJet sponsorship.
The women’s singles events showcased both established champions and emerging talents. Faith Obiora, a proven force in para table tennis, continued her reign in the women’s class five category, defeating Kate Oputa to retain her title. Kehinde Lawal, recognized as an African champion, reinforced her status by securing first place in the women’s class nine category. Notably, Ivie Edogiaweire capitalized on the absence of defending champion Faith Obazuaye to claim victory in the women’s class 10, demonstrating the dynamism and evolving landscape of the sport. These victories underline the depth of talent within the women’s para table tennis scene and the constant striving for excellence.
The men’s singles competition was equally captivating, featuring thrilling matches and impressive displays of skill. Bolawa Akingbemisilu, a Paralympian set to compete in Paris 2024, asserted his prowess in the men’s class five category with a decisive 3-0 victory over Lekan Abdullahi. Isau Ogunkunle, Africa’s sole medalist at the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, lived up to his reputation with a commanding 3-0 win over Timothy Umeh in the men’s class four, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in African para table tennis. These victories not only demonstrated individual brilliance but also highlighted the rising prominence of African athletes on the international para-sports stage.
The men’s singles competition continued to deliver exciting moments. Olufemi Alabi, a bronze medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, added another victory to his impressive record by winning the men’s class 10 title. In a surprising turn of events, Abiola Adesope upset Paralympic medallist Tajudeen Agunbiade in a closely contested 3-2 match in the men’s class nine category, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the sport and the potential for emerging players to challenge established champions. These victories underscored the competitive spirit and the ongoing evolution of skill and strategy within para table tennis.
Beyond the individual triumphs, the ValueJet Lagos Para Table Tennis Championships served a broader purpose, contributing to the development and recognition of para-sports in Nigeria and the region. Togo’s Atisso Amele further enhanced her country’s presence by securing two bronze medals, one in the women’s singles and another in the women’s doubles class five categories. This achievement highlighted the growing participation and competitiveness of para-athletes from neighboring countries, fostering a sense of regional growth and collaboration within the sport. The inclusion of athletes from Togo and the Benin Republic enriched the tournament and emphasized the unifying power of sports.
Since its inception in 2019, the ValueJet Lagos Para Table Tennis Championships has become a crucial event in the national para table tennis calendar. The tournament plays a significant role in the selection process for the national team, providing a platform for athletes to showcase their abilities and compete for national representation. Kunle Soname, Chairman of ValueJet, reiterated the airline’s unwavering commitment to supporting para-athletes and promoting inclusivity in sports. This continued sponsorship demonstrates the vital role that corporate partnerships play in the development and sustainability of para-sports. The event, organized by the Sunday Odebode Para Sport Foundation and supported by the National Sports Commission, further reinforces the collaborative efforts to advance para-sports within the country. The seventh edition of the tournament was a clear testament to the growing strength and prominence of para table tennis in the region, fueled by the dedication of athletes, organizers, sponsors, and supporters alike.
