Fatimo Bello and Ajoke Ojomu showcased their dominance as they led the women’s team to victory over host state Ogun, retaining their title in the table tennis team event at the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024.
In the men’s team event, a new champion emerged as Bayelsa claimed the title. The formidable trio of Olajide Omotayo, Taiwo Mati, and Azeez Solanke stunned the competition, defeating Delta in the final after dispatching host state Ogun 3-1 in the semifinal. Ogun had fielded experienced players such as Bode Abiodun and Bode Kayode.
Despite tough resistance from the Lagos team, which featured seasoned players Bose Odusanya and Bose Akinsete, Delta maintained their dominance by sweeping the final 3-0 to retain the women’s team title they had won in the previous edition.
Bayelsa’s men’s team, led by Omotayo, Mati, and Solanke, delivered a commanding 3-0 win over Delta to be crowned the new champions.
The host state, Ogun, excelled in the para team events. Paralympic bronze medalist Isau Ogunkunle partnered with Olalekan Ilesanmi to defeat Delta’s Bolawa Akingbemisilu and Wasiu Yusuf, clinching the Class 1-5 men’s team title.
Although they lost the doubles match to Delta, Ogunkunle rallied from a set down to beat Akingbemisilu 2-1, while Ilesanmi overcame Yusuf 2-1, securing a 2-1 victory for Ogun. In the women’s Class 1-5 team event, Rivers State edged Delta 2-1.
Ogun added another gold medal in the para events by winning the women’s Class 6-10 team event with a 2-1 triumph over Delta. Delta, however, claimed gold in the men’s Class 6-10 event, defeating Rivers State 2-0.
Meanwhile, former African champion Olufunke Oshonaike praised Ogun State for hosting a successful festival.
“I’m impressed with Ogun State, especially the equipment provided for the table tennis event. The atmosphere was commendable, and the standard of play was encouraging. However, more needs to be done for female players. The level is still low, and we must support them through better coaching and exposure,” she said.