Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially endorsed Wahid Enitan Oshodi’s candidacy for the presidency of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF). Oshodi, who previously served as the Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development in Lagos, is preparing to contest for this significant position during the ATTF’s Elective Annual General Meeting scheduled for October 15, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Government highlighted their unequivocal support for Oshodi, recognizing his enduring dedication to the growth and promotion of table tennis both locally and continentally.
Omotoso emphasized Oshodi’s commitment to the sport over several decades, noting the substantial impact he has made on table tennis not just in Lagos, but across Africa. His support for young athletes, encouraging them to pursue professional table tennis careers, and his leadership in identifying and nurturing talent in the state have been acknowledged as vital contributions. Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Oshodi as a commendable representative of Lagos, underscoring his role in inspiring and grooming numerous athletes in the region. The governor’s endorsement reflects a broader recognition of Oshodi’s influence on the younger generation and the development of the sport.
Oshodi’s ascent in the international sports scene has been notable, especially with his recent roles as Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation and Deputy President of ATTF since 2021. Sanwo-Olu expressed excitement about Oshodi’s achievements, which have not only brought pride to Lagos and Nigeria but have also established a stronghold for African table tennis on the global stage. The governor believes that Oshodi’s potential election to the ATTF presidency will significantly advance the sport in Africa and further enhance Lagos’ reputation as a key player in the international table tennis arena.
Oshodi’s career in sports administration took off when he became the Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association. This pivotal role allowed him to influence the sport’s development at both grassroots and elite levels. His tenure as the commissioner under Governor Babatunde Fashola marked a transformative period for Lagos, particularly with the organization of the ‘Eko 2012’ National Sports Festival and the introduction of the International Sports Classics. These events not only elevated the profile of table tennis in Lagos but also attracted top athletes from across Africa, establishing the city as a significant hub for the sport.
If Oshodi secures the presidency of the ATTF, he would be the second Nigerian ever to hold this prestigious position, following Engr. Segun George. This achievement would not only deepen Nigeria’s involvement in continental sports governance but also position Oshodi uniquely as the sole Nigerian leader of a continental sports federation. His presidency could pave the way for more structured development programs for table tennis in Africa, fostering greater participation and competition at all levels.
Overall, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement reflects a confluence of local pride and strategic vision for the future of table tennis in Africa. With Wahid Enitan Oshodi’s experience and commitment to the sport, the potential for positive change and growth within the ATTF appears promising. His candidacy offers an opportunity to enhance the status of table tennis across the continent, while also continuing to build on the legacy of fostering young talent and promoting sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment in Nigeria and beyond.
