Offiong Edem Foundation Mini Table Tennis Tournament Kick Off In Calabar With 9 State’s In Attendance
BY ETTAH EMMANUEL O.
The atmosphere at the Table Tennis Hall of the U. J. Esuene Sports Complex, Calabar, is buzzing with energy and raw talent as the 5th edition of the Offiong Edem Mini Table Tennis Tournament officially kicked off today, April 17, 2025.
This year’s tournament is the biggest yet, drawing participation from young, promising athletes across nine Nigerian states: Akwa Ibom, Delta, Bayelsa, Edo, Abia, Rivers, Anambra, Imo, and host state Cross River. The event is organized by the Offiong Edem Foundation, established by five-time Olympian and six-time African Table Tennis Champion, Offiong Edem.
To boost the morale of the young table tennis players participating in the 5th edition of the competition in Calabar, Offiong Edem generously brought a large consignment of table tennis equipment from the United States to support and encourage the athletes.
Speaking to our correspondent, Ettah Emmanuel, Edem expressed immense joy at seeing her vision come to life. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch these young athletes grow. Seeing names like Hope Udoka, Vivian Oku, and others making waves in the sport is proof that our efforts are yielding results,” she said.
According to Edem, the foundation’s primary goal is to discover and nurture raw talent, then prepare them for both national and international competitions. This year, the tournament has attracted even more attention due to the quality of play, the increasing number of participating states.
The competition, which runs from April 17 to 19, promises exciting matches and mouthwatering prizes across various categories. The event is free and open to the public, and Edem has extended a warm invitation to families, fans, and sports enthusiasts to come and witness the next generation of Olympians in action.
From the fierce rallies on the court to the passion and discipline shown by the players, the Offiong Edem Mini Table Tennis Tournament is fast becoming a key fixture in Nigeria’s grassroots sports calendar setting the stage for a brighter future in Nigerian table tennis.
