Table tennis has become one of the most popular sports in Nigeria over the years. The country has produced some of the best table tennis players in the world, with many of them representing Nigeria in international competitions.
From Segun Toriola to Aruna Quadri, Nigerian table tennis players have consistently been among the best on the continent. This article will provide an introduction to some of the best table tennis players from Nigeria.
It will also discuss their accomplishments and highlight their contributions to the sport.
1. Quadri Aruna
Quadri Akinade Aruna is an outstanding Nigerian table tennis player. He has achieved great success in the sport, competing in three Olympic Games: the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, and the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
In Rio, he reached the quarter-finals, a remarkable accomplishment. Moreover, Aruna made history by becoming the first African table tennis player to be ranked in the top 10 in the world. This is an incredible feat, demonstrating his skill and dedication to the sport.
His success has motivated others to follow in his footsteps and strive for excellence in their own pursuits. Aruna’s achievements have been celebrated by the Nigerian sports community, and his determination and hard work have been an inspiration to athletes all over the world.
His story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and determination.
2. Olufunke Oshonaike
Olufunke Oshonaike, more commonly known as Funke Oshonaike, is a professional table tennis player from Nigeria.
She is based in Hamburg, Germany, and at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, she represented Nigeria. Oshonaike began her illustrious table tennis career at a very young age on Akeju Street in Shomolu, Lagos, in the early 1980s.
Akeju Street was the setting of her early years of table tennis, where she was able to hone her skills and eventually move on to compete at the highest level. Though Oshonaike is currently based in Germany, she has made her mark in Nigeria’s table tennis community throughout her career.
In 2006, she was the first Nigerian woman to win a medal in an individual event at the Commonwealth Games, and she has since gone on to win multiple gold medals in doubles events at the African Games.
She is a great source of inspiration for other Nigerian athletes, especially female athletes, who have dreams of competing at the highest level. Oshonaike’s story is an inspiring one that shows that, with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
She was able to begin her career on a street in Lagos, and now she is competing on an international level. Her success is a testament to the power of determination and passion.
3. Segun Toriola
Segun Moses Toriola is a renowned Nigerian table tennis player who is best known for his illustrious career in the sport. He was born into a large family of nine brothers and grew up to become the youngest of them all.
From as early as 1995, Segun has been recognized as the best Nigerian table tennis player. His fame and success have only increased over the years, and he is currently one of the most respected table tennis players in Africa.
Segun has continuously been ranked among the top in the sport since the mid-1990s, and his skill and expertise are unparalleled. He has earned numerous awards and honors for his achievements, and his influence in the sport has been immense.
Segun Moses Toriola is an admirable athlete who has made a lasting impression in the history of table tennis.
4. Bode Abiodun
Bode Abiodun is a talented table tennis player from Nigeria. He had the opportunity to represent his country at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. During the Olympics, Bode competed as part of the Nigerian team in the men’s team event.
He was part of a team that competed against other countries in the event. His team was able to reach the quarter-finals in the event, showing that they had talent and potential.
Bode showed his skill and determination throughout the tournament and was a great ambassador for the Nigerian team. He was able to show the world that Nigeria could compete in the world of table tennis and gave his country a platform to showcase their talents.
Bode Abiodun is a true testament to the potential of Nigerian athletes and he will continue to inspire other Nigerians to pursue their dreams.
5. Atanda Musa
Atanda Ganiyu Musa is a prominent Nigerian table tennis player. He has achieved great success in the sport, having represented Nigeria at the Summer Olympics in 1988 and 1992.
During his Olympic appearances, Atanda participated in both the singles and doubles events, showcasing his talent and versatility. At one point in his career, Atanda was ranked 20th in the world, marking the peak of his success.
His years of hard work and dedication to the sport clearly paid off, as his consistent performance earned him a spot amongst the world’s top players.
Atanda serves as an inspiration to aspiring table tennis players, proving that hard work and dedication can lead to great success.
6. Olajide Omotayo
Olajide Omotayo Adeyemi is a remarkable athlete from Nigeria who has made a name for himself in the international table tennis community. He is currently based in Italy and is the youngest of six siblings.
His success in the sport is evident in his peak world ranking of 85, a position he achieved in the International Table Tennis Federation Men Singles World Ranking.
Even today, he is still ranked 144, a testament to his dedication and skill in the sport. Adeyemi is an incredible example of what determination and hard work can achieve.
He is a role model to aspiring table tennis players, showing that with enough dedication anyone can reach their goals. His success in the sport is further proof that with enough passion and drive, anything is possible.
7. Bose Kaffo
Bose Kaffo is a remarkable Nigerian athlete who has achieved incredible success in her table tennis career. She is the only Nigerian woman to have competed at five Olympic Games, from 1992 to 2008.
This feat puts her alongside Mary Onyali, the first Nigerian woman to compete at five Olympics, who is a sprinter. In 2008, another Nigerian table tennis player, Segun Toriola, joined them in this honor.
This is a remarkable accomplishment for both Kaffo and Toriola, and it is a testament to the strength of Nigerian athletes. Kaffo has been a driving force in the Nigerian table tennis scene, having achieved numerous accolades and inspiring generations of young athletes.
She is an exemplary role model for aspiring Nigerian athletes and her legacy will be felt for many years to come.
8. Offiong Edem
Offiong Edem is a professional table tennis player from Nigeria. She is a highly accomplished athlete, having competed for her home country in the 2004, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics.
Edem has achieved great success in her athletic career, and her hard work and dedication have earned her a spot on the Nigerian Olympic team for the 2020 Summer Olympics. This will be her fourth time competing at the Olympics, and she is sure to be a formidable opponent.
Edem has demonstrated her skill and determination on the court, and it is clear that she has a bright future ahead of her.
Her passion for the sport and her commitment to excellence have made her an inspiration to many, and it will be exciting to see what she accomplishes in the future.
9. Cecilia Offiong
Cecilia Otu Offiong-Akpan is a successful Nigerian table tennis player. She has enjoyed a number of impressive accomplishments throughout her career.
Her most notable successes came in the form of two gold medals, earned alongside her partner Offiong Edem at the 2007 All-Africa Games in Algiers, Algeria, and at the 2011 All-Africa Games in Maputo, Mozambique.
These impressive feats have helped cement her place as one of the world’s top table tennis players and, as of February 2013, Offiong is ranked no. in the world.
Her hard work and dedication to the sport of table tennis is an inspiration to many, and her impressive accomplishments and rankings show that she is a force to be reckoned with.
10. Esther Oribamise
Esther Tosin Oribamise is an accomplished Nigerian athlete who holds the distinction of competing for her country in both table tennis and para tennis.
She has a long history of success on the court, having competed in numerous local and international table tennis tournaments. At home, she has emerged as a champion in Nigerian table tennis tournaments, having taken part in numerous competitions across the country.
Her success has been so impressive that she was selected to compete for the Nigerian national team in both table tennis and para-tennis competitions at the international level. In international competitions, Esther has been extremely successful.
She has won multiple international medals in both table tennis and para tennis, and she has even been honored with the Nigerian Sports Award for excellence in table tennis. Her impressive accomplishments have helped her to become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated athletes.
Esther Tosin Oribamise is an incredible athlete who has achieved great success in both table tennis and para-tennis. She has excelled in local and international competitions, making her an inspiration to aspiring athletes in Nigeria and around the world.
Her dedication to her craft has made her a true champion in the sport.
11. Adeyemo Fatai
Adeyemo Fatai is a male former table tennis player from Nigeria. He had a successful career from 1985 to 1994, where he won multiple medals in singles, doubles, and team events in the African Table Tennis Championships.
He was also an Olympic athlete, competing in the men’s doubles at the 1988 Summer Olympics. Fatai’s career was a testament to his skill and dedication as a table tennis player, as his accomplishments speak for themselves.
He was able to excel in both singles and doubles events, as well as in team events. Furthermore, he was able to qualify for the Olympics, which is a feat many athletes can only dream of.
Fatai’s career highlights his passion and talent for table tennis, and his name will remain a part of Nigerian sports history.
12. Ibrahima Diaw
Ibrahima Diaw is a Senegalese table tennis player who recently competed in the 2020 Summer Olympics. He was born in France to a Senegalese father and a Malian mother, and he grew up in Paris.
As a young player, he competed for France at the junior level and was able to make his way to the Olympics representing Senegal. As a child of two cultures, Diaw was able to draw from both sides of his heritage to become a great player.
He is a powerful example of how an individual’s culture and background can shape their development into a successful athlete.
13. Iyabo Akanmu
Iyabo Akanmu is a prominent Nigerian table tennis player who has achieved a high level of success in her sport. Born in Lagos in 1964, Akanmu began playing table tennis as a child and quickly rose to prominence in the Nigerian table tennis scene.
She competed in the Nigerian National Championships at the age of 16 and won the title. She went on to compete in the African Championships in 1985, 1987, and 1989, winning multiple medals in each event.
Akanmu also had the honor of representing Nigeria in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. She competed in the single’s event and was knocked out in the round of 16.
Despite not winning a medal, her presence helped to bring more attention to the sport in Nigeria and Africa. Akanmu’s career did not end after the Olympics, however, as she continued to compete in international tournaments and won multiple medals in the 1990s.
Her influence on the sport is still felt today, as she is remembered as one of the greatest Nigerian table tennis players in history.
14. Kubrat Owolabi
Kubrat Owolabi is a remarkable table tennis player who has competed internationally for both Nigeria and England. She has made a name for herself in the sport of table tennis, representing both countries on an international level.
Born in Nigeria, Kubrat Owolabi is a former professional table tennis player who began her career in her home country. She quickly rose to prominence, competing in both local and international tournaments.
During this time, she won several medals, earning her the recognition of being one of the best players from Nigeria.
In 2012, she decided to begin competing for England, and she went on to represent the country at the International Table Tennis Federation World Championships in 2013.
She was the first Nigerian-born player to represent England at the championships, and she has since become an inspiration to other Nigerian-born players.
Kubrat Owolabi’s career has had its highs and lows, but her determination and dedication to the sport of table tennis have not wavered. She continues to be an inspiration to many, showing that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
15. Abiola Odumosu
Abiola Olawunmi Odumosu is a remarkable Nigerian table tennis player who has achieved a great deal in the sport. She is the first Nigerian woman to ever compete in the Olympic Games, having done so in the women’s singles event at the 1992 Summer Olympics.
Her remarkable feat is a testament to her dedication and devotion to the sport, which have earned her much respect and admiration in Nigeria and beyond.Odumosu has had a long and successful career in table tennis.
She first started playing when she was 11 years old and eventually rose to become one of the most talented players in the country. She has won many local and international competitions, including gold medals at the African Table Tennis Championship.
Her career highlights also include a bronze medal at the All-Africa Games in 1999 and a gold medal at the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship in 2000.Odumosu has been recognized for her accomplishments in various ways.
She was awarded the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the highest honor for civilian service, in 2003. She has also been inducted into the Nigeria Table Tennis Hall of Fame and the African Table Tennis Hall of Fame.
In addition to her athletic success, Odumosu is also an advocate for women’s rights in Nigeria. She has been involved in numerous campaigns to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women in the country.
Through her efforts, she has inspired and encouraged countless women to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence in their respective fields.
Abiola Olawunmi Odumosu is an incredible athlete and a true role model who has made an indelible impact on the world of table tennis and Nigeria as a whole.
Her achievements and legacy are a source of immense pride for her nation, and she is an excellent example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
16. Kehinde Okenla
Kehinde Okenla is a Nigerian table tennis player who made her mark in the international sporting arena at the 2000 Summer Olympics. She represented her country in the women’s doubles event at an event, held in Sydney, Australia.
Okenla and her partner, Foluke Oluwafunmilayo Ajayi, put up a strong showing in the competition, ultimately reaching the quarter-finals. Despite their efforts, the duo was unable to secure a podium finish, eventually falling to the Chinese team of Wang Nan and Qiao Hong.
Okenla’s accomplishments in table tennis are significant, not only for her own personal success but also for the legacy she established for future Nigerian players.
Okenla’s Olympic appearance was the first for a Nigerian table tennis player, and she paved the way for subsequent players to follow in her footsteps.
Her participation in the 2000 Summer Olympics is a testament to the hard work and dedication she has put into her sporting career. Today, Okenla continues to play table tennis competitively and is an active member of the Nigerian national team.
She has also taken on a coaching role, guiding the next generation of Nigerian table tennis players and inspiring them to reach their potential. Okenla’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to be felt in the Nigerian table tennis scene for many years to come.
17. Atisi Owoh
Atisi Owoh is a professional table tennis player from Nigeria. She is best known for competing in the 2000 Summer Olympics in the Women’s Doubles event. Owoh had a solid performance in the tournament, impressing many with her skill and determination on the court.
She was one of only a handful of African athletes participating in the competition, making her a source of pride and inspiration for her country. Despite not achieving a podium finish, Owoh demonstrated that Nigerian athletes can compete at a world-class level.
Her presence in the Olympics also helped to raise the visibility of Nigerian athletes to a global audience. Owoh’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes as they strive toward excellence in their chosen sport.
18. Yomi Bankole
Oluwayomi Bankole Wickliffe, better known as Hawk, was an accomplished Nigerian table tennis player. He made a name for himself by competing in the 1988 and 1992 Summer Olympics, showcasing his remarkable skill and sportsmanship.
Unfortunately, Hawk passed away on January 29, 2021, but his legacy will not be forgotten. Hawk rose to fame in the table tennis world due to his impressive skill and accuracy. He was highly regarded by his peers and fans alike, and his passion for the sport was undeniable.
His drive to compete at the highest level propelled him to the Olympic stage, where he was able to show off his talent to the world. During his time competing, Hawk achieved numerous successes.
He was able to showcase his talents to a global audience, showing them that Nigerian athletes can compete at the highest level.
Hawk’s achievements will remain a testament to his dedication and hard work, and his legacy will live on for years to come. Hawk’s death was an unexpected shock to the table tennis community. He was beloved by his peers and fans alike, and his absence will be greatly felt.
Though he is no longer with us, Hawk will be remembered for his skill, talent, and passion for the sport. Oluwayomi Bankole Wickliffe, better known as Hawk, was an extraordinary Nigerian table tennis player whose legacy will live on forever.
19. Suraju Saka
Suraju Saka is a professional table tennis player from Nigeria. He has represented his country in multiple international competitions, including the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. In both of these tournaments, he had the opportunity to compete in the Men’s singles event.
Unfortunately, he was unable to progress past the first round in either of these events. Despite his lack of success at the Olympic Games, Suraju Saka has had a successful career overall.
He has won several medals in the African Championships, in addition to a bronze medal in the 2011 All-Africa Games. He has also been the Nigerian National Champion for multiple years in a row.
This demonstrates his skill and dedication to the sport, even if he has not been able to reach the same heights as some of his competitors.
20. Tajudeen Agunbiade
Tajudeen Agunbiade is a Nigerian para table tennis player who competes in the class nine division. He is also a Paralympian, which means he has competed in the Paralympic Games.
Agunbiade is an inspiration to many in his home country, as he has worked hard to reach the level of success he has achieved. Agunbiade’s success is largely attributed to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
He takes the time to practice and hone his skills, which has paid off in terms of his accomplishments both on the court and in the Paralympic Games.
He is also an advocate for para-table tennis and works to raise awareness and acceptance of the sport. Agunbiade has achieved a great deal in his career, including winning medals in multiple international competitions.
He has also participated in the African Para-Table Tennis Championships and the World Para-Table Tennis Championships.
Additionally, he has been a part of the Nigerian Para Table Tennis team, which has achieved great success in the sport. Tajudeen Agunbiade is a role model for many in Nigeria and beyond.
He has worked hard to achieve success in his sport and is a true example of dedication and perseverance. His story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
21. Isau Ogunkunle
Isau Ogunkunle is a renowned Nigerian table tennis player. He has competed locally and internationally for Nigeria in various table tennis competitions. In 2022, he will be representing Nigeria in the male para table tennis competition at the Commonwealth Games.
Ogunkunle has achieved impressive results in the sport over the years. He has won numerous medals and awards at state and national levels. He has also earned the respect of his peers and the admiration of the sporting world for his skill and dedication.
Ogunkunle’s passion for table tennis began at a young age. He has trained hard to hone his skills and reach the international level. He is an inspiration to young players, who look up to him and strive to emulate him.
His dedication to the sport has earned him a place in the hearts of table tennis fans all over the world. The Commonwealth Games is a prestigious event, and Ogunkunle’s selection to represent Nigeria is a great honour.
He has the chance to prove himself on the world stage and show the world what he is capable of. It is a testament to his hard work and dedication that he has been selected to compete. Isau Ogunkunle is a great example of what dedication and hard work can achieve.
He has worked hard to reach the top of his sport, and his selection in the male para table tennis competition at the 2022 Commonwealth Games is a testament to his skill and determination. He is an inspiration to table tennis players all over the world.
22. Khalid Assar
Khalid Assar is a talented table tennis player from Egypt. He made his Olympic debut in 2016 in the Men’s Singles competition, where he faced off against Wang Jianan of Congo and lost in the preliminary round.
Despite this setback, Khalid was determined to improve and made it to the 2020 Summer Olympics, where he will represent Egypt. His brother, Omar Assar, is also an Olympian, with a successful career in the sport.
The Assar brothers are a shining example of dedication and perseverance, with Khalid’s story of redemption as a testament to the power of hard work. The two brothers are an inspiration to other athletes and a reminder that with dedication and passion, anything is possible.
Conclusion
The best table tennis players in Nigeria are some of the best in the world. They have achieved amazing success in international tournaments, and their skill and dedication have inspired many others to take up the sport.
Their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport, and they are a great example of what it takes to be a successful table tennis athlete in Nigeria.
