32 players for 2nd Atanda Musa U-15 table tennis champs News

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32 players for 2nd Atanda Musa U-15 table tennis champs

By Daily Sports Nigeria on September 8, 2025

The second edition of the Atanda Musa U-15 Invitational Tournament begins on Monday at the Lagos Country Club in Ikeja, with 32 rising stars jostling for the ultimate prize.

Organised by the Lagos State Table Tennis Association in partnership with Lagos Country Club, the tournament is designed to uncover new talent while serving as a philanthropic initiative by former Commonwealth champion Atanda Musa.

Now based in the United States, Musa was a household name in the 1990s and remains one of Africa’s most celebrated table tennis legends.

The two-day event will feature 16 boys and 16 girls selected from the recently concluded Efunkoya Championships, with standout talents such as Umar Ayoola and Khadijat Musa leading the lineup.

Sharing his excitement, Musa described the tournament as part of his mission to elevate table tennis and give back to the community.

“My inspiration came from what I witnessed in the US, where former athletes actively contribute to society. I’m replicating that model here in Nigeria to encourage others to support the communities that shaped them. Nigeria is rich in sporting talent, and initiatives like this can motivate young athletes to strive harder and aim higher,” he said.

Having represented Nigeria in numerous international competitions and coached in Spain and Saudi Arabia before settling in the US, Musa emphasised the importance of discipline, skill development, and preparing players for professional success.

In addition to prize money, this year’s edition will include educational support for participants.

“With schools reopening soon, we’ve decided to provide educational materials to the players. Our goal is not only to nurture champions in sports but also to ensure they have a strong academic foundation,” Musa added.

Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association, Tunji Lawal, commended Musa’s initiative, calling it a model worthy of emulation by other former athletes.

“This tournament is about accelerating the development of young players within the table tennis community. Atanda Musa began his journey here in Lagos before rising to national and international acclaim. Hosting this event where it all started is truly meaningful,” Lawal said.

Source Punch Ng

Posted September 8, 2025