The ongoing National Sports Festival in Abeokuta has received accolades from Ama-Ebi Ebikpolade Stow, Chairman of Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association and representative on the board of Nigeria Table Tennis Federation. According to Ama-ebi, the festival has been “colourful and intense,” showcasing the preparedness of all participating states.
He commended the organizers for providing standard facilities and equipment for table tennis, saying, “They have got the floor, which is very necessary for the game of table tennis. And the tables, I can see they are top-notch. The butterfly is center full 25. So as far as the equipment goes, it’s a standard one.”
However, Ama-ebi noted that table tennis development in Nigeria still faces challenges, citing the need for support from the federal government and private sector involvement. “There’s a lot that needs to be done. We need support from the federal government and also we need to attract the private sector to come in and give us a helping hand,” he said.
Regarding the dominance of elite athletes in table tennis competitions, he emphasized that the sport is guided by rules and that young athletes can compete alongside experienced players. “If there is a rule that says elite players should not be involved, fine. But there are no rules like that. And provided you are a Nigerian, you have the right to play,” he said.
Ama-ebi expressed confidence in Bayelsa State’s table tennis athletes, saying, “The chances are there. We are going to do well. All I can say of my athletes, they are top there with the best.”
