Fatimo Kazeem set the tone for the championship with a commanding win over Martha Oluwatukesi of Osogbo Grammar School. This was followed by Azeezat Ifabiyi’s dominant performance against Zainab Omotosho of Baptist Girls High School. The final match of the day saw Nafisat Abdulazeez triumph over Titomi Olanipekun of Amazing Secondary School.
The 2024 Erelu Ngozi Adeleke Table Tennis Championship for Female Secondary School Students in Osun State kicked off with thrilling matches at the Michael and Felicia Alabi Hall, Osogbo City Stadium, on Tuesday. Fatimo Kazeem and Azeezat Ifabiyi, both from St. James Grammar School, along with Nafisat Abdulazeez from Osogbo Grammar School, have advanced to the next round after impressive victories in their opening matches.
While addressing the audience at the Michael and Felicia Alabi Hall, the Permanent Secretary of the Osun State Ministry of Sports, Mr. Deji Olawunmi, commended the government, led by His Excellency Senator Ademola Adeleke, for its unwavering support for sports at all levels. He praised the governor’s dedication to fostering sports and thanked the organizers, SportsGig International, for their efforts in putting together this remarkable competition.
Mr. Olawunmi also encouraged the participating girls to seize this golden opportunity and give their best, noting that such competitions will continue in the future.
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During the timeout, the audience, mostly secondary school students from the participating schools, were treated to lively music and a photo session. Sponsors, particularly representatives from Checkers Custard and Zagg Energy Malt Drink, distributed gift items to both the participants and the audience, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
Other notable dignitaries in attendance included representatives of the Osun State First Lady, the General Manager of Osun State Sports Council Mr. Rotimi Dumoye, the Director of Osun Ministry of Sports Mr. Layi Adesiyan, Osun State Football Association Chairman Mr. Sola Fanawopo, Checkers Custard Representative Yemi Adeniyi, Osun Sports Council PRO, SUBEB Representative Mr. Olaore, Mrs. Bewaji, Mr. Olayinka Olawole, CEO of SportsGig International, among others.
The championship will continue on Thursday, with the final match set to be played on Monday, June 2, 2024.