President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) and Chairman of the Oyo State Table Tennis Association, Dr. Soji Tayo, has handed over a newly constructed multi-million-naira table tennis hall to the Oyo State Government.
The facility, located at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, was officially commissioned on Monday as part of efforts to provide athletes with modern facilities that meet international standards.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Tayo said the project was driven by his desire to leave a lasting legacy for the development of table tennis in Oyo State rather than simply providing infrastructure.
According to him, the new facility will provide athletes with a conducive environment to train, develop their skills, and compete at higher levels.
“It is not about infrastructure to me but about the legacy one is leaving behind. The players will see this as a place where they can train and exhibit their talents and ensure they get to the podium. I am glad this dream has come to fruition.
“We have four world-class tables with good flooring, and I can say that this hall, another Aruna Quadri, and Chief Waidi Ekun will be discovered,” Tayo said.
He explained that the project had been in the works for some time before finally becoming a reality, expressing hope that the state government would ensure its proper maintenance.
Tayo added that the hall is equipped with four world-class tables and a quality playing floor expected to remain in good condition for several years.
He expressed optimism that the facility could produce future champions and stars capable of representing Nigeria on the international stage.
“In this hall, another Aruna Quadri or Chief Waidi Ekun can be discovered,” he added.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, commended Tayo for the initiative and assured him that the facility would be properly maintained.
She described the gesture as a significant contribution to sports development in the state, noting that the state government and governor are aware of the project.
“To say we are grateful is an understatement. We really appreciate your kind gesture. What you have done for us in the state is noticed, and we cannot run away from the fact that it will boost the performance of our athletes at the national and international levels,” Adegoke said.
The commissioner also appealed to other well-meaning Nigerians to support sports development in Oyo State by contributing to infrastructure and other areas where assistance is needed.
Similarly, the General Manager of the Oyo State Sports Council, Mrs. Olabisi Adegoke, expressed appreciation to Tayo for the facility and urged athletes to use it for its intended purpose.
She also charged coaches to make effective use of the opportunity by providing quality training to athletes, stressing that proper utilisation of the facility would help achieve the objectives behind its establishment.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
