Matthew Kuti Makes History, Ajoke Ojomu Clinches First Title at 2025 ITTF Africa West Championships in Lagos
History was made and dreams realized at the 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championships, as Nigeria’s Matthew Kuti became the first West African player ever to successfully defend the Men’s Singles title, while Ajoke Ojomu claimed her maiden Women’s Singles crown in an unforgettable campaign for Team Nigeria.
The prestigious tournament, held at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, from July 16 to 19, brought together top paddlers from across the region — including Ghana, Benin Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Guinea, and Burkina Faso.
Despite intense pressure, Kuti reaffirmed his dominance in West African table tennis, defeating teammate Abdulbasit Abdulfatai 4-1 (7-11, 11-6, 11-9, 11-7, 11-7) to retain his crown. On the women’s side, Ojomu powered through the final against Sukurat Aiyelabegan, winning in straight sets (11-7, 11-8, 11-5, 14-12), even as she battled a visible leg injury. The home crowd roared her on as she captured her first singles title in heroic fashion.
Matthew Kuti Makes History, Ajoke Ojomu Clinches First Title at 2025 ITTF Africa West Championships in Lagos
Team Nigeria also dominated the team events, with both men’s and women’s squads reclaiming their titles. The men’s team, led by Kuti, Taiwo Mati, and Abdulfatai, overcame Côte d’Ivoire 3-0 in the final, while the women, fronted by Ojomu, swept aside Benin Republic, Ghana, and Guinea without dropping a match.
This four-day championship not only celebrated Nigeria’s dominance but also served as a qualifier for the 2025 African Championships in Kigali, Rwanda.
Ferdinand Sounou, Vice President of the ITTF Africa West Region, hailed Lagos’ hosting as the “best edition yet,” noting the improved standard and shrinking gap between Nigeria and its regional rivals.
“Nigerian players are no longer untouchable. The competition is fierce, and that’s great for the sport,” said Sounou. “Still, Nigeria continues to lead the way.”
With this record-breaking performance and renewed fire, Team Nigeria now sets its sights on continental glory in Kigali.
Comments
This post currently has no comments.