Players representative
on the Board of Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Tajudeen Agubiade, has urged the body to include para-athletes in its competitions.
Agubiade told newsmen in Lagos that the gesture would encourage the physically challenged athletes to excel.
He said that there were talented table tennis players that were eager to make a mark at national competitions but had not received the desired encouragement from the body.
“I must confess that the NTTF present board is doing well, competitions are regular, but in the same direction I am pleading that equal opportunities should be extended to the para-athletes.
“We got talents in the categories of para-athletes, they are always here in the Knock-Up Hall for training and it will be exciting to augment their effort with competitions.
“That is not to say there is disparity, but its to foster smooth relationship among table tennis players both able and disabled, to further solidify development of the sport in the country.
“I believe this board has a listening ear, and is ready to apply measures that will promote the sport and put smile on the faces of the athletes under them,’’ he said.
The NTTF players’ representative also acknowledged that there were sufficient and standard training facilities for the athletes.
“Our hall is of international standard with modern facilities for training, implying that the body is in tune with the pace of development and is highly remarkable,’’ he added.
While applauding the board for its tremendous effort in engaging athletes through competition, Agubiade enjoined state associations to also follow the good step.