Akanbi and Asaju Triumph at Osun 2026 National Table Tennis Championship
Rilwan Akanbi and Bisola Asaju emerged victorious as the men's and women's singles champions respectively at the National Table Tennis Championship, held over the weekend at the newly constructed Idera Multi-Purpose Hall in Otan Ayegbaju, Osun State. This prestigious tournament, also known as the Michael and Felicia Alabi Memorial Table Tennis Tournament, attracted top players from across Nigeria, all vying for honors in a spirited community event.
Expanding Prestige and Prize Pool
For five intense days, more than 200 athletes competed for supremacy and a share of the N5 million prize pool, which marked a significant increase from last year's N3.5 million. Organized under the auspices of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation and powered by the Michael and Felicia Alabi Foundation, the event has steadily grown into one of the country's most esteemed table tennis fixtures, showcasing the sport's rising popularity and competitive spirit.
Thrilling Finals and Upsets
In the men's singles final, Rilwan Akanbi demonstrated remarkable grit by overpowering Wasiu Azeez with a 4–2 victory. His path to the title was paved with determination, as he dethroned defending champion Abdulbasit Abdulfatai in a hard-fought semifinal match. On the women's side, Bisola Asaju seized her moment, defeating Favour Ojo 4–2 to clinch the crown. Her triumph was particularly notable following the shocking early exit of reigning champion Hope Udoaka in the round of 16, signaling a potential shift in the women's game hierarchy.
Junior Categories Showcase Future Talent
The junior categories provided their own share of drama and excitement. In the girls' U-15 final, Chinenye Okafor delivered a dominant performance, sweeping past debutant Deborah Festus 3–0. Despite the loss, Festus captured hearts with her fearless run to the final in her first national outing, earning praise from NTTF President Adesoji Tayo for her courage against seasoned competitors. On the boys' side, Umar Ayoola was clinical in his approach, dispatching Abdulateef Abdulsalam 3–0 to secure the U-15 title.
Closing Ceremony and Commendations
The closing ceremony carried a celebratory air, with Nigeria Olympic Committee Secretary General Tunde Popoola commending Ayodeji Alabi, chairman of the Osun State Table Tennis Association, for his unwavering commitment to sustaining and growing the tournament. This event not only highlighted individual achievements but also underscored the collaborative efforts to promote table tennis at the national level.
