President Bola Tinubu has expressed pride in Wahid Oshodi’s recent election as President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF), which he perceives as a significant achievement for Nigeria. Oshodi was elected unanimously during the 2024 Annual General Meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marking a pivotal moment for the country in international sports. Tinubu’s appreciation of this milestone reflects not only the strength of support Oshodi received domestically but also highlights Nigeria’s role in fostering leadership in competitive sports across Africa.
Oshodi’s ascension to the ATTF presidency follows his extensive experience in sports administration, having previously served as the Deputy President of the ATTF and the Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation. His election marks him as the second Nigerian to preside over the ATTF, succeeding Egypt’s Khaled El-Salhy, who had held the position since 2010. This achievement not only consolidates Nigeria’s influence in sports governance but also emphasizes the trust placed in Oshodi by sports stakeholders across Africa, evident in the unanimous nature of his election.
Tinubu’s congratulatory message underscored Oshodi’s dedication to the development of table tennis at grassroots levels, his commitment to integrity, and his accountability as a leader. He described Oshodi’s election as a testament to his work ethic and passion for enhancing the sport, which inspires sports enthusiasts both locally and across the continent. The Nigerian leader sees this election as a hopeful sign for the future of table tennis and a foundation for its further growth in Africa.
Under Oshodi’s leadership, there are expectations that he will utilize his vast experience and network to advance the state of table tennis in Africa significantly. Tinubu believes that Oshodi’s leadership style and vision can elevate the sport to new heights, a sentiment echoed by the backing from various African nations during the election process. His capacity to lead and develop significant initiatives in the sport is anticipated to improve not just participation levels but also enhance the overall competitiveness of African table tennis on the global stage.
Oshodi’s career in sports administration dates back to 2000 when he joined the Lagos State Sports Council Governing Board, appointed by then-Governor Bola Tinubu. His stewardship includes noteworthy accomplishments such as overseeing the National Sports Festival, “Eko 2012,” during his time as Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development under Governor Babatunde Fashola. These experiences have laid a solid foundation for his presidency at the ATTF, where his track record positions him well to lead the federation and represent Nigeria’s interests effectively.
In conclusion, Tinubu’s support indicates a firm commitment to furthering Nigeria’s sports ambitions, and the government promises to back Oshodi in his new role as the ATTF President. As he takes on this pivotal position, there is a palpable sense of optimism regarding his potential contributions to the sport. The collective weight of his responsibilities reflects not only the expectations of a nation proud of its heritage in sports but also the hopes for a Continental landscape enriched by a renewed focus on table tennis development under his capable leadership.
