Nigeria’s Matthew Kuti made history by becoming the first West African player to successfully defend his men’s singles title at the 2025 West African Table Tennis Championships, while Ajoke Ojomu claimed her maiden regional crown in the women’s singles.
The tournament concluded Saturday, July 19 at Lagos’ Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium.
Seven nations competed following Liberia’s withdrawal, with host nation Nigeria sweeping all team events against Ghana, Benin Republic, Guinea, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso. Nigerian players dominated the singles categories, claiming all medals despite fierce competition.
Kuti showcased his championship pedigree with a 4-1 comeback victory (7-11, 11-6, 11-9, 11-7, 11-7) over compatriot Abdulbasit Abdulfatai in the men’s final. “This defense means everything – it proves last year wasn’t a fluke,” the elated champion told reporters post-match.
In the women’s draw, Ojomu exorcised her 2024 finals demons against Hope Udoaka by overpowering Sukurat Aiyelabegan in straight sets (11-7, 11-8, 11-5, 14-12) despite nursing a leg injury. “The pain disappeared when I heard the crowd roar,” Ojomu revealed. “This gold medal makes all the struggles worthwhile.”
Earlier on Thursday, Nigeria’s men’s team avenged their 2024 loss to Togo by crushing Côte d’Ivoire 3-0 in the final, while the women’s team led by Ojomu completed an undefeated title defense against Benin Republic, Ghana and Guinea.
The championship doubled as qualification for October’s African Championships in Kigali, Rwanda. ITTF Africa West Region Vice President Ferdinand Sounou praised Lagos’ hosting: “This year’s tournament in Lagos was a resounding success. The quality of organization and the elevated standard of play were impressive.”
Sounou noted the region’s competitive evolution: “Nigerian players are no longer the untouchables they once were. The gap is closing, and the competition is intensifying. Still, Nigeria remains the top team in West Africa.”
The victories cement Nigeria’s table tennis supremacy while signaling growing regional challengers – a dynamic that promises thrilling contests at upcoming continental events.