By Ghazali Ibrahim
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru has emphasized the power of sports to transform young lives, as the second edition of the Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championships ended in Lagos with an unexpected triumph for Team Oyo.
The competition, an initiative of the SAIL Empowerment Foundation founded by Senator Abiru and his wife, has quickly grown into one of the most competitive mixed-table-tennis platforms in West Africa drawing 30 teams from Nigeria, Togo, and Benin Republic.
What was planned as a celebration of youth talent became a stunning upset on Saturday at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, where unseeded Oyo battled past favourites from Lagos, Edo, and Kwara to lift the trophy.
Led by Wasiu Azeez and Halima Hussein, Oyo overcame Bayelsa in a thrilling final that showcased grit, teamwork, and electrifying skill.
Azeez overturned an early deficit to secure a crucial win before Hussein and partner Khadijat Okanlawon wrapped up victory in the women’s doubles.
The N5.5 million prize money tournament also saw Kwara sweep Lagos Team 2 to claim bronze.
For Senator Abiru, who represents Lagos East Senatorial District, the performances underscored why he created the championship in the first place to provide a platform where talent can thrive regardless of background or ranking.
“This tournament has once again shown that when we create the right environment for our youth, talent flourishes, friendships blossom and excellence thrives,” Abiru said at the closing ceremony.
He reaffirmed that the championship which is part of the Foundation’s broader work in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship is designed to open doors for young people and strengthen inclusion across communities.
“Our athletes reminded us of the beauty of competition and the unity that sports can foster,” he added, pledging that next year’s edition will be “even bigger, better and more inclusive.”
The Senator also applauded partners such as ITTF Africa President, Barrister Wahid Enitan Oshodi, and NTTF President, Dr. Adesoji Tayo, whose collaboration has elevated the standard of the competition.
Chief Impact Officer of SAIL Foundation, Deji Abisola, echoed the commitment to growing opportunities for youth:
“Whether in sports, tech or enterprise, our mission is to ensure young Nigerians have platforms to shine.”
With new champions crowned and new talents discovered, the tournament’s message was clear in the right arena, greatness doesn’t need seeding to rise.
