Nigerian women’s table tennis icon, Offiong Edem, has called time on her international career after 20 years of representing the country and bagging honours at several major tournaments, including the Olympic Games.
The 37-year-old announced the decision on Thursday in a statement on her social media handles, hinting at plans to explore new horizons and nurture young table tennis talents, and inspiring the next generation to surpass her achievements.
“A proud 5-time Olympian, I bid farewell to the national team. It’s time to explore new horizons and nurture young table tennis talents, inspiring the next generation to surpass my achievements, “stated the Calabar-born, who represented Nigeria in the 64 kg with the highest world ranking of 89.
She continued, “I extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who’s supported me on this incredible journey: family, friends, and well-wishers. Your unwavering love and encouragement mean the world. From humble beginnings in Bayside to international recognition, thank you, IOC, NOC, NTTF, and I thank God for talent and the opportunities it brought so much as been achieved, and I’m grateful I bow out and still remain committed to the table tennis community, empowering young stars. Once again, thank you all for your support. Peace and love.”
Over the years, Offiong Edem has become one of the most successful and well-known table tennis players in Nigeria. She has represented the country at multiple editions of the African Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympic Games, cementing her place as one of Africa’s top female players. Her consistent performances at these events have helped elevate the profile of Nigerian table tennis on the global stage.
Some of her most notable achievements include winning multiple gold medals at the African Championships, where she has competed against some of the best players from across the continent. Additionally, Edem has been a key member of Nigeria’s women’s table tennis team, playing a pivotal role in the country’s dominance in African team events.
Edem has also represented Nigeria at the Olympic Games, participating in the 2004 Athens, 2012 London, and 2020 Tokyo Games. While she has faced stiff competition at the Olympics, her experience and resilience have earned her recognition as a respected competitor on the global stage.