Offiong Edem launches 6th annual table tennis tournament

The 6th edition of the Offiong Edem Table Tennis Championship has officially commenced in Calabar. More than 100 young athletes from 15 different states and various sports associations are competing in this year's tournament.

Offiong Edem, a four-time Olympian and former six-time African champion, launched the event to support the development of Nigerian table tennis talent. She noted that the competition has expanded significantly since its start, growing from approximately 50 participants last year to over 100 this year. The current field includes players from states such as Edo, Enugu, Anambra, Bayelsa, and Delta, alongside three participating clubs.

Edem, who currently coaches in Texas, USA, expressed concern regarding the lack of resources available to Nigerian players. She stated that while there is an abundance of talent capable of reaching national teams or playing in Europe within five years, the sport is struggling due to insufficient support. She highlighted that many players train throughout the year but are unable to travel to national tournaments because of funding shortages.

The former Olympian emphasized the need to expose local players to international standards, noting that the style of play in Nigeria currently lags behind the rest of the world. Her goal is to encourage players to learn new techniques and compete on a larger stage. She also expressed an intention to expand the event into a national tournament next year.

Agnes Atsu, the Cross River State Sports Commissioner, has pledged support for the championship, citing its importance in fostering grassroots sports development.