By The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Team 1 emerged as champions at the inaugural Senator Tokunbo Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championship.
Senator Abiru, who represents the Lagos East Senatorial District at the National Assembly, hosted the tournament at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.
This historic event, marking the first mixed team table tennis tournament in Africa, attracted large crowds, including sports fans and dignitaries, to witness the final showdown between Lagos State Team 1 and NSCDC Team
Sponsored by the SAIL Empowerment Foundation, established by Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru and his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, the championship brought together 28 teams from Nigeria, Togo, and Benin Republic.
Senator Tokunbo known for his commitment to youth empowerment and development in technology, sports, and innovation, focuses on providing opportunities for young Nigerians.
Senator Abiru, along with guests such as Lagos State Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso and African Table Tennis Federation President Wahid Enitan Oshodi, praised the tournament’s success.
The grand finale saw NSCDC Team 1, led by Rilwan Akanbi and Abdullahi Abdulrahman, narrowly defeat Lagos Team 1 in a close 3-2 match.
The victory secured NSCDC the top prize of N1 million. Notable recognitions went to Funmilayo Ojo of Ondo and NSCDC’s Abdulrahman as the most improved and valuable players of the tournament.
Senator Abiru emphasized that the tournament was a milestone for African sports and a platform for young athletes. He expressed his ongoing commitment to youth empowerment through sports and applauded the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation for supporting the event.
“What an incredible journey it has been! As we gather here today to celebrate the grand finale of the First Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championship, I am filled with pride and immense gratitude. This championship has marked a new chapter in African sports, as we brought to life the first mixed table tennis tournament ever held on the continent. We have made history together, and it’s a milestone that I believe will set a powerful precedent for years to come.” he stated .
