Team Nigeria Shine In Cardiff, Win 6 Medals At ITTF Para Table Tennis Open

Team Nigeria delivered an impressive performance at the just-concluded ITTF International Para Table Tennis Open in Cardiff, Wales, winning six medals and strengthening their qualification hopes for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

The Nigerian contingent dominated the championship, securing three gold, two silver and one bronze medal in a strong showing against international opposition.

President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN), Sunday Odebode, credited the team’s success to the support and motivation provided by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

Odebode said the Commission’s financial and logistical backing made it possible for Team Nigeria to participate in the Cardiff tournament, which he described as an important platform for athletes to accumulate ranking points ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.

“Our focus is to ensure that our players gather enough points by attending these important international tournaments, and the NSC has continued to be our major backbone,” Odebode said.

He also praised the leadership of NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade for what he described as unprecedented promptness in providing technical and financial support to para-sports athletes.

“This is not me just trying to shower encomiums on the NSC and the leadership of Mallam Shehu and Hon. Bukola Olopade, but we have never had it this good when it comes to prompt and technical support from the Commission,” he added.

Following their impressive Cardiff outing, the Nigerian team will travel to France for the ITTF World Para Elite Championship, which is expected to attract athletes from more than 35 countries.

The French tournament represents another crucial opportunity for the Nigerian players to earn valuable ranking points as they pursue qualification for the World Championships and the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.