Sports

NSC Applauds Team Nigeria on Success at ITTF Word Para Future Tourney in Jordan

Published

7 months ago

April 15, 2025

Joel Ajayi

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has lauded the outstanding performance of Team Nigeria at the recently concluded ITTF World Para Future tournament in Amman, Jordan, where the nation displayed its dominance in para table tennis by finishing among the top three teams globally.

Over the three-day championship, Nigeria amassed a remarkable haul of five gold, seven silver, and two bronze medals. Competing against powerhouses such as Germany, Iran, and host nation Jordan, Nigeria stood tall as one of only three African nations in attendance, alongside Egypt and South Africa.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko described the achievement as a “testament to what is possible when vision meets preparation and belief.”

He added: “Our para-athletes have continued to inspire the entire nation. Their performance in Jordan shows that with the right support, Nigerian sports can soar on any global stage.”

NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the resilience and brilliance of the athletes, as well as the technical team and leadership of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria (PCN). “This is a proud moment for Nigeria,” Olopade said.

“I must commend the dedication of the team, especially the leadership of PCN President Sunday Odebode, who has remained committed to excellence and inclusion in Nigerian sports.”

The medals came in fast for Nigeria: Olufemi Alabi won the country’s first gold in the Men’s Class 10 singles, beating Iraq’s Shafeeq Hikmat. Faith Obazuaye clinched gold in the Women’s Class 9-10.

Bolawa Akingbemisilu earned gold in the Men’s Class 4-5, defeating compatriot Kehinde Lawal.

Abiola Adesope and Tajudeen Agunbiade captured gold in the Men’s Doubles Classes 14-18.

Alabi and Obazuaye closed Nigeria’s campaign in style by taking gold in the Mixed Doubles Classes 17-18.

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Sports

“Aderonke Atoyebi Wins Big in Denmark, Inspires Global Recognition for Nigerian Women in Sports

Published

6 hours ago

November 3, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Nigeria’s own Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has brought immense pride to the nation after being named the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year at a ceremony held in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organizations that use sports and physical activity as tools for social change, inclusion, and empowerment across the globe. This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, spotlighting outstanding figures who have transformed their communities through the power of sports.
Atoyebi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment has made her a prominent voice in the sports-for-development space. Through her advocacy and leadership, she continues to demonstrate how sports can serve as a bridge for education, unity, and hope—especially among young women in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the recognition, Atoyebi received a €3,000 cash prize along with the global visibility that accompanies the prestigious ISCA honour.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement, dedicating the recognition to her team and everyone who has supported her journey.
> “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” Atoyebi said. “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”

Atoyebi’s global recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence in the global dialogue around sports, development, and women’s empowerment. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of African women to believe that with passion, dedication, and purpose, they too can create lasting change.

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