Team Nigeria Shines at ITTF World Para Future Tournament
Team Nigeria made a powerful statement at the ITTF World Para Future tournament in Amman, Jordan, with Bolawa Akingbemisilu and Faith Obazuaye clinching gold in their respective singles events. This success has raised the country’s medal count and fueled hopes for a dominant finish in the doubles categories.
Akingbemisilu emerged victorious in the Men’s Class 4-5 category after an intense all-Nigerian final, defeating Isau Ogunkunle 3-2. On the other hand, Obazuaye showcased her skills in the Women’s Class 9-10, securing a commanding 3-1 victory over Kehinde Lawal to claim the gold medal.
These wins contribute to Nigeria’s growing medal haul, which includes a silver for Abiola Adesope in the Men’s Class 9, and bronze medals for Kape Oputa in both the Men’s Class 9 and Women’s Class 4-5 events.
Adesope put up a valiant fight in the final against Iurii Nozdrunov of Russia, narrowly missing the gold with a 3-2 defeat. Additionally, veteran player Tajudeen Agunbiade secured a bronze medal after his semifinal loss to Nozdrunov. Oputa’s quest for gold was halted by Iraq’s Rusul Al Waeli in a close 3-2 match.
With the singles events now concluded, Team Nigeria is focused on the doubles competition, aiming to capitalize on their momentum and make a strong push for the overall team title.
On the tournament’s opening day, Olufemi Alabi, a bronze medallist from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, secured Nigeria’s first gold medal in the Men’s Class 10.
The Nigerian contingent, consisting of eight members including five men and three women, is in Jordan as part of their preparations for the upcoming African Championships. Supported by the National Sports Commission (NSC), this tournament marks their first international appearance since the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The team is under the guidance of experienced coaches Nosiru Sule and Gbenga Olanipekun.
