Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has endorsed Wahid Enitan Oshodi’s candidacy for the presidency of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF).
Oshodi, who previously served as Lagos State’s Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development, is vying for the position in the upcoming ATTF Elective Annual General Meeting on October 15th, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
In a statement from Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the state government expressed its strong support for Oshodi’s bid, praising his unwavering dedication to the advancement of table tennis both locally and continent-wide.
“Wahid’s genuine passion for the sport has had a profound impact, not just in Lagos but across Africa,” Omotoso stated. “We are fully behind him and wish him success in his pursuit. He is a proud Lagosian who has inspired many young people to embrace the game and become professionals. Additionally, his efforts in talent discovery have nurtured numerous athletes.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded Oshodi’s achievements and his growing prominence in the global table tennis scene.
“We are proud of Mr. Oshodi’s accomplishments, both in Africa and internationally,” Sanwo-Olu remarked. “In 2021, he became a key figure in world table tennis, elected as Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation and Deputy President of the ATTF. His election as ATTF President will not only uplift the sport in Africa but also enhance Lagos’ reputation as a center for table tennis.”
Oshodi’s sports administration journey began as Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association. He later became Commissioner for Sports in 2011 during Governor Babatunde Fashola’s administration. Under his leadership, Lagos gained recognition as a major hub for table tennis, hosting the successful ‘Eko 2012’ National Sports Festival and launching the International Sports Classics, attracting top talent from across Africa.
If elected, Oshodi would be the second Nigerian to hold the ATTF presidency, following Engr. Segun George. His presidency would also make him the only Nigerian leading a continental sports federation, further solidifying his influence in both African and global sports administration.
