Lagos Endorses Wahid Oshodi for African Table Tennis Federation Presidency

LAGOS, Oct 8  – The Lagos State Government has officially endorsed Wahid Enitan Oshodi, a former Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development, as a candidate for the presidency of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF). Oshodi will contest for the position at the 2024 Elective Annual General Meeting, set to take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on October 15.

In a statement released by the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the government expressed strong support for Oshodi’s bid, praising his enduring commitment to the sport. “His genuine passion for table tennis over the past decades makes him an exemplary candidate,” the statement read.

Oshodi’s tenure as Commissioner significantly raised Lagos’ profile in global table tennis circles. Under his leadership, the city emerged as a major hub for the sport, hosting numerous high-profile tournaments and nurturing local talent.

“We are backing him and wish him all the best. He is a worthy Lagosian who has inspired many of our youths to pursue professional careers in table tennis. Beyond that, he has been instrumental in our talent development programmes, grooming many future stars,” Omotoso quoted Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as saying.

Oshodi’s journey in table tennis administration began as Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association. He was appointed Commissioner in 2011 during the administration of former Governor Babatunde Fashola, during which time he spearheaded the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival, ‘Eko 2012,’ and introduced the International Sports Classics series, solidifying Lagos’ reputation as a sporting hub in Africa.

Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted Oshodi’s growing influence in the international table tennis community. “We are proud that Mr. Oshodi continues to elevate Lagos and Nigeria on the world stage. In 2021, he was elected Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and Deputy President of ATTF. His leadership has already left a mark, and we believe his election will bring positive change to table tennis and sports in general.”

If successful in the election, Oshodi would become the second Nigerian to serve as ATTF President, following in the footsteps of Engr. Segun George, a former ATTF leader. His election would also make him the only Nigerian currently leading a continental sports federation.

The Lagos government’s endorsement signals strong national support for Oshodi as he vies for one of the most prestigious positions in African sports.