Dr. Adesoji Tayo has been appointed as the new leader of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF).
The Nigerian table tennis community is abuzz with enthusiasm following the recent election of Dr. Adesoji Tayo as President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation. The election took place during the federation’s elective congress in Abuja over the weekend.
Currently serving as Chairman of the Oyo State Table Tennis Association, Tayo secured the presidency unanimously after his main contender, Ahmed Khamisu, withdrew prior to the vote. Hailing from Oyo State, Tayo takes over from Engr. Ishaku Tikon, who had been at the helm for eight years.
The election was noted for its peaceful and transparent process, widely regarded as one of the most harmonious in the federation’s history. Conducted under the guidelines of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), the event saw robust participation from delegates nationwide, with zonal elections preceding the presidential ballot.
Dr. Tayo, a veteran figure in Nigerian table tennis, has previously held the position of Vice President within the NTTF. His dedication to the sport is well recognized, having frequently provided financial assistance to ensure Nigerian teams could compete in key international events.
In addition to his monetary contributions, Tayo is esteemed for his profound understanding of table tennis and his steadfast commitment to advancing the sport’s development across Nigeria.
He is set to serve a four-year term and has committed to emphasizing youth development, focusing on identifying emerging talent and raising coaching standards throughout the country.
“Our mission is to establish a solid platform for the future of Nigerian table tennis. We will channel resources into youth initiatives and empower our coaches to cultivate the champions of tomorrow,” Tayo stated.
Following the election, Ahmed Khamisu was appointed Vice President representing the North East zone. Known for his discreet yet significant support of junior athletes, Khamisu has played a key role in facilitating their participation in international competitions.
The newly formed 15-member NTTF Board includes representatives from various regions and affiliated organizations as stipulated in the federation’s constitution:
Adesoji Tayo – President;
Ahmed Khamisu – Vice President (North East);
Wahid Enitan Oshodi – International Representative / President, ITTF Africa;
Engr. Ishaku Tikon – Outgoing President;
Dominic Sylvester – Technical Representative;
Prof. Joshua Umeifekwem – NAPHERSD;
Joy Ibekwe – NAWIS;
Monilola Udoh – AFFAN;
Tony Emefile – Military & Paramilitary;
Sunday Odebode – Sponsor/Philanthropist;
Sule Nasiru – Athlete Representative;
Ebikpolade Ama-Ebi Wilson – South South;
Akunna Boniface Uju – South East;
Ibrahim Abdul-Hamid Ali – North Central;
Ndanusa Mohammad Sani – North West.
With this revitalized leadership and inclusive representation, the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation is well-positioned to embark on a promising chapter of growth and achievement in the sport nationwide.