President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) and Chairman of the Oyo State Table Tennis Association, Dr. Soji Tayo, has handed over a newly constructed multi-million-naira table tennis hall to the Oyo State Government.
The facility, located at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, was officially commissioned on Monday as part of efforts to provide athletes with modern training facilities that meet international standards.
Soji Tayo Table Tennis Hall Targets Future Champions
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Tayo said the project was inspired by his desire to create a lasting legacy for table tennis development in Oyo State.
He explained that the facility was not merely about constructing another sports infrastructure but about creating an environment where athletes could develop their talents, compete at higher levels and pursue their dreams of reaching the podium.
“It is not about infrastructure to me but about the legacy one is leaving behind. The players will see this as a place where they can train and exhibit their talents and ensure they get to the podium. I am glad this dream has come to fruition,” Tayo said.
Tayo said the project had been in the works for some time before it was eventually completed, expressing hope that the Oyo State Government would ensure the facility is properly maintained.
According to him, the Soji Tayo table tennis hall has four world-class tables and a quality playing floor designed to remain in good condition for several years.
He expressed optimism that the facility would help discover and nurture future champions capable of representing Nigeria on the international stage.
“In this hall, another Aruna Quadri or Chief Waidi Ekun can be discovered,” he added.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, commended Dr. Soji Tayo for the initiative and assured him that the facility would be properly maintained.
She described the Soji Tayo table tennis hall as a significant contribution to sports development in the state, adding that the government and Governor were aware of the project.
“To say we are grateful is an understatement. We really appreciate your kind gesture. What you have done for us in the state is noticed, and we cannot run away from the fact that it will boost the performance of our athletes at the national and international levels,” Adegoke said.
The commissioner also appealed to other well-meaning Nigerians to support sports development in Oyo State through investments in infrastructure and other areas requiring assistance.
Soji Tayo Table Tennis Hall to Support Athlete Development
The General Manager of the Oyo State Sports Council, Mrs. Olabisi Adegoke, also expressed appreciation to Dr. Soji Tayo for providing the facility.
She urged athletes to use the hall for its intended purpose while charging coaches to maximise the opportunity by providing quality training to upcoming players.
She noted that effective utilisation of the facility would be crucial to achieving the objectives behind its establishment and developing athletes capable of competing at national and international levels.
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