The “The Time is Now to Make Table Tennis Great Again” Tournament, a groundbreaking initiative to revive table tennis in Plateau State, concluded on March 26, 2025, at the Ladi Musa Hall, Rwang Pam Stadium, Jos.
Sponsored by the Plateau State Government, in collaboration with the Plateau State Table Tennis Association, the tournament kicked off on March 24, 2025, drawing passionate players from across the state.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Musa Ashoms, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to promoting all sports in Plateau State. He emphasized that Governor Caleb Mutfwang is a strong advocate for sports and remains committed to fostering a thriving sporting culture in the state.
“The time is now for sports on the Plateau to come back to life,” he declared, assuring athletes that the government will continue using sports as a tool to promote peace and unity.
Prof. Ezra Gunen, Director of Sports, lauded the revival of table tennis in the state, thanking the governor for his unwavering support. He also expressed the council’s commitment to discovering young talents in schools and ensuring continuity in the sport’s development.
Coach Sunday Dickson, Plateau State’s head table tennis coach, was overjoyed to see the sport revived after years of stagnation. He extended his gratitude to Governor Mutfwang and table tennis enthusiast Shaibu D. Mohammed from Lokoja, Kogi state, who generously awarded ₦50,000 to the male champion and ₦40,000 to the female champion.
The tournament delivered thrilling matches, showcasing skill, determination, and sportsmanship. In the men’s singles category, Otu Bassey emerged as the champion, claiming the title with an outstanding performance, while Favour Komolafe finished as the runner-up. In the women’s singles category, Comfort Amaonwu clinched victory, with Anthonia Gomos securing second place. Winners were rewarded with trophies, medals, and cash prizes.
The successful conclusion of the tournament marks a new era for table tennis in Plateau State, with hopes high for continued investment and development in the sport.
