The 6th Lagos Valuejet Para Table Tennis Open is set to commence on Thursday, November 7, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, with participants from the United Kingdom, Iran, Iraq, Cameroon, Benin Republic, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, and host Nigeria competing in this prestigious event.
At a press conference held on Wednesday, November 6, Sunday Odebode, the initiator and President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN), expressed his excitement over the impressive turnout for this year’s tournament. He noted the significant growth in participation, with players from Europe, Asia, and Africa confirming their attendance. “We are thrilled that the tournament continues to grow by leaps and bounds. The registration this year was impressive, and we are happy to see the event attracting more players worldwide,” Odebode said.
Pablo Perez, ITTF Para Manager, highlighted Nigeria’s growing influence in para table tennis, which has motivated the ITTF to support the tournament as one of the sanctioned events in Africa.
“We are particularly thrilled with the growth of table tennis in Nigeria. The performance of Nigerian players in major international competitions is a testament to the country’s hard work. Nigeria is truly making a mark, with Isau Ogunkunle being the only African medallist at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. We are proud to witness another tournament this year and commend Odebode and his team for their efforts,” Perez stated.
Over 30 players have received certification from classifiers, enabling them to launch their professional careers, according to tournament referee Asko Rasinen.
Uchechi Achomadu, Marketing and Communication Manager of Valuejet, pledged the airline’s support while encouraging participants to give their best.
“We are proud to be part of the tournament again this year as it aligns with our commitment to community support. We have been inspired by the determination and tenacity of the athletes and see this as an opportunity to champion the true spirit of sportsmanship among the competitors. We are hoping for an exciting tournament as the battle for the podium begins,” she said.
Paris 2024 Paralympic Games bronze medallist Isau Ogunkunle described his experience in Paris as a turning point in his life and promised to retain his title in the Men’s Class 5.