UK, Iran, Others Set for Lagos Valuejet Para T’Tennis 

The 6th Lagos Valuejet Para Table Tennis Open is set to commence today, November 7, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos. 

Participants from the United Kingdom, Iran, Iraq, Cameroon, Benin Republic, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, and host Nigeria will compete in this prestigious event.

At a press conference held yesterday, the initiator and President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN), Sunday Oyebode, expressed his excitement over the impressive turnout for this year’s tournament. 

He noted the significant growth in participation, with players from Europe, Asia, and Africa confirming their attendance. “We are thrilled that the tournament continues to grow by leaps and bounds. 

The registration this year was impressive, and we are happy to see the event attracting more players worldwide,” Odebode said.

ITTF Para Manager, Pablo Perez, highlighted Nigeria’s growing influence in para table tennis, which has motivated the ITTF to support the tournament as one of the sanctioned events in Africa. 

“We are particularly thrilled with the growth of para table tennis in Nigeria. The performance of Nigerian players in major international competitions is a testament to the country’s hard work. Nigeria is truly making a mark with Isau Ogunkunle being the only African medalist at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. 

“We are proud to witness another tournament this year and commend Odebode and his team for their efforts,” Perez stated.

Tournament referee Asko Rasinen mentioned that over 30 players have been certified by classifiers, allowing them to kickstart their professional careers.

Marketing and Communication Manager of Valuejet, Uchechi Achomadu, pledged the airline’s support while encouraging participants to give their best. 

“We are proud to be part of the tournament again this year as it aligns with our commitment to community support. We have been inspired by the determination and tenacity of the athletes and see this as an opportunity to champion the true spirit of sportsmanship among the competitors. 

“We are hoping for an exciting tournament as the battle for the podium begins,” she said.

Paris 2024 Paralympic Games bronze medalist Isau Ogunkunle described his experience in Paris as a turning point in his life and promised to retain his title in the Men’s Class 5.