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Funke Oshonaike Urges Total Overhaul of Grassroots Structure in Nigerian Table Tennis

Posted : 26 May 2026

Nigerian table tennis legend Funke Oshonaike has called for an immediate and complete overhaul of the country's grassroots development structures. Speaking to reporters during the 2026 WTT Contender Lagos at the Sir Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, the iconic athlete expressed deep concern over the decline of local talent. She noted that the complete absence of home-grown players in the final stages of elite tournaments highlights a widening gap on the continent.

Oshonaike lamented that Nigeria has failed to establish a sustainable transition pipeline since her generation stepped away from international competitions. The veteran administrator noted that global powerhouses now field highly competitive athletes as young as 14 years old. She urged sports administrators to study and adopt Egypt’s successful developmental blueprint, which focuses heavily on identifying and nurturing talents from under ten years of age.

The former African champion also defended national star Olajide Omotayo against public criticism regarding his recent inconsistent international performances. She highlighted the immense financial strain on local athletes, explaining that self-funding international tournament fees remains incredibly expensive. Oshonaike emphasized that while Omotayo maintains a high playing standard at the club level, he desperately requires consistent corporate sponsorship to comfortably compete globally.

The continental icon, who currently serves on the International Olympic Committee Athletes' Commission, revealed advanced plans to revive her national youth clinic. She stated that her recent graduation allows her more time to focus on developing young female table tennis players across Nigeria. The seven-time Olympian concluded by appealing to corporate bodies and private sponsors to back the upcoming clinic to restore the nation's elite ranking.

 

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