by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

A total of ten participants attended, being drawn from higher education institutions and media organisations within Nigeria.

The essence of the training was to increase the knowledge of aspiring journalists with regards to table tennis, give them a background by explaining the history of the sport and encourage then to promote throughout Africa.

Notably present for the occasion was Khaled El-Salhy, President of the African Table Tennis Federation.

“I am happy to see young people who are willing to support and help our sport, increase popularity. The more popular, the more sponsorship we get to help stage tournaments across the continent. I want to thank our Press Officer for organising the event this year. It is the third time we have had such training, we are confident that you can all be our ambassadors.” Olalekan Okusan.

Positive words from Khaled El-Salhy, it was the same from Dr Kweku Tandoh.

“We believe supporting this kind of initiative is in line with the state’s ideal of becoming the continent’s sports hub. I want to consider yourselves lucky to have been selected to be part of this training and you should all see this as a life-changing event that will help shape your view of sports.” Kweku Tandoh

A positive response was received from all concerned, in particular Tana Aiyejina, the sports editor of Punch, one of the leading national newspapers in Nigeria, wise words were offered to all present.

“Becoming a good sports journalist start from you having a strong passion for what you are doing. You must also improve yourselves and aim high in life; be professional in your conduct.” Tana Aiyejina

Present at the event, to lend support was Berthy Bakhary, the Executive Vice President Finance of the African Table Tennis Federation, in addition to international umpires South Africa’s John Peters and Ghana’s Francis Frimpong.