Multi-Million Naira Table Tennis Hall Handed Over To Oyo Government

The chairman of the Oyo State Table Tennis Association, Adesoji Tayo, has handed over a multi-million-naira table tennis hall to the Oyo State government as part of efforts to strengthen the development of the sport in the state.

The facility was handed over on Monday, September 21, at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.
Tayo, who is also president of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), said the project was driven by his desire to leave a lasting legacy for the development of table tennis and provide young players with an environment to hone their skills.

“It is not about infrastructure to me but about the legacy one is leaving behind,” Tayo said.

“This hall will serve as a place where players can train, showcase their talent, and aim for the podium. We have four world-class tables and flooring that will remain in top condition for at least 10 years.

“I believe another Aruna Quadri or Waheed Ekun will be discovered here.”

Receiving the facility on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, expressed appreciation to Tayo for the gesture and pledged that the facility would be properly maintained.

She said Governor Seyi Makinde was aware of the donation and described the project as a significant contribution to sports development in the state.

“To say we are grateful is an understatement,” Adegoke said.

“This gesture will undoubtedly boost the performance of our athletes at both national and international levels.”

The commissioner also called on other well-meaning Nigerians to support sports development by contributing to infrastructure and other initiatives that can provide opportunities for young athletes.

The General Manager of the Oyo State Sports Council, Mrs Olabisi Adegoke, also commended Tayo for providing the facility and urged athletes to use it strictly for its intended purpose.

She stressed the importance of coaching in developing players and ensuring that the new facility is fully utilised.

The new hall provides Oyo State’s table tennis players with a dedicated training facility equipped with four tables and specialised flooring.

The project is expected to provide a platform for young talents to develop their skills while supporting the state’s efforts to produce athletes capable of competing at national and international levels.