Wahid Oshodi has recently been elected as the President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF) in a unanimous decision that marks a significant new chapter for the sport on the continent. Speaking from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the election took place, Oshodi expressed his gratitude for the support he received and emphasized the importance of building on the accomplishments of his predecessor. He acknowledged the extensive groundwork already laid and faced the challenge of positioning table tennis alongside more prominent African sports like athletics, basketball, and football. His statement highlighted a profound belief in the untapped potential of table tennis in Africa, as he aims to elevate the sport’s status and public interest across the continent.
A key focus of Oshodi’s presidency will be youth development, a commitment he has treasured throughout his career in sports administration. Drawing from his experiences as the Chairman of Sports in Lagos and his subsequent role as the state’s Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development, Oshodi is determined to harness the talent visible in youth tournaments throughout Africa. He emphasized the necessity of nurturing young talent to keep pace with global trends, noting that many of the world’s top table tennis players are under 20 years old. His vision aims to inspire and engage African youth in the sport, ensuring their participation at competitive levels both regionally and internationally.
Oshodi has not shied away from addressing the challenges that African table tennis faces, particularly in terms of inadequate funding and corporate support. He has observed that one of the largest barriers is the lack of investment from the corporate sector, which has limited the potential for growth and visibility of the sport. To counter this, he envisions an increased alignment with the business community to foster partnerships that will provide the necessary resources for development initiatives and broader outreach programs. His belief in the talent surrounding him—both in leadership and among athletes—fuels his optimism that these partnerships can be established to support the sport’s growth.
His election has resonated positively across the continent, marked by a congratulatory address from President Bola Tinubu, who recognized Oshodi’s integrity and commitment. Tinubu’s endorsement reflects the broader enthusiasm for Oshodi’s leadership and the aspirations held for the future of table tennis in Africa. The acknowledgment from prominent figures underlines the expectation that Oshodi will be able to replicate his successes at the state level on a continental scale, fostering a burgeoning sports culture that prioritizes accountability, integrity, and grassroots involvement.
Wahid Oshodi’s credentials in sports administration run deep, having begun his career in 2000 with appointments that have shaped his perspective and expertise. His previous roles include serving as the Deputy President of the ATTF and Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), experiences that have equipped him with invaluable insights into both regional and global sporting dynamics. This wealth of experience positions him well to lead the ATTF, suggesting that he will draw upon a broad network and understand the complexities involved in promoting a sport across diverse African nations.
Ultimately, as the newly elected president of the ATTF, Oshodi faces the pressing challenge of fostering grassroots development, securing funding, and raising Africa’s profile in the global table tennis arena. The unanimous support he has garnered reflects confidence from stakeholders, and his ambitious vision offers a pathway to transform the perception and structure of table tennis on the continent. With a robust focus on youth engagement, partnerships with the corporate sector, and a commitment to aligning more closely with international standards, Oshodi stands poised to make a lasting impact on African table tennis in the years to come.
