Aruna Quadri Backs Eko 2026 To Unearth Nigeria’s Next Sports Stars

Africa’s table tennis trailblazer Quadri Aruna has endorsed the maiden National Intermediate Games, Eko 2026, describing the multi-sports event as an important platform for discovering and nurturing Nigeria’s next generation of sporting talents.

The inaugural Games are scheduled to hold in Lagos from 1 to 15 October, with more than 15,000 athletes expected to compete in 28 sports across 10 venues.

Aruna, the first and only African player to break into the top 10 of the men’s world table tennis rankings, gave his backing to the Games during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, in Alausa, Ikeja.

The table tennis star was accompanied by his wife, Ganiat, and their children.

Aruna said the return of attention to grassroots sport was essential to rebuilding Nigeria’s sporting fortunes.

“Sports in Nigeria has faced challenges, but this initiative is the best way to restore our lost glory,” he said.

The Olympian also acknowledged Lagos State’s contribution to his development, noting the support he had received from the state over the years under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

He urged young athletes taking part in Eko 2026 to see the Games as an opportunity not only to compete but also to learn, develop and prepare themselves for bigger challenges.

“They should embrace it, give their best, enjoy the experience, and learn as much as possible to succeed in life,” Aruna said.

Reflecting on his own journey, the 37-year-old recalled picking up a table tennis racket at the age of seven in Oyo town, initially playing simply for enjoyment without imagining that the sport would eventually take him to the highest level.

“This event is for all Nigerian youths,” he said, urging the participants to remain disciplined, determined and willing to learn.

“They must believe in themselves. Just as people say ‘Oyo to the World’, they too can rise from their towns to the world stage.”

Omotoso, who is chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee of the Eko 2026 Local Organising Committee, said Aruna’s endorsement carried particular significance because of his own grassroots journey.

“His endorsement shows what is possible when you put your mind to something,” Omotoso said.

“Aruna himself started just like many of the athletes who will compete. Seeing him encourage them will inspire energy, determination and purpose. From the National Intermediate Games, they too can rise to the world stage and showcase their talent.”

The Eko 2026 Games are expected to provide young athletes with a competitive platform while giving talent scouts and sports administrators an opportunity to identify prospects who could progress into Nigeria’s elite sporting system.