Quadri Aruna, Africa’s table tennis pioneer and the continent’s first player to break into the world’s top 10, has endorsed the inaugural National Intermediate Games, Eko 2026.
The Nigerian star sees the event as more than a sporting contest. In his view, it can become an important pipeline for identifying and developing the country’s next generation of champions.
Quick facts
- Eko 2026 will run in Lagos from October 1 to 15.
- More than 15,000 athletes are expected to take part.
- The programme will feature 28 sports at 10 venues.
- The Games are being staged in Lagos for the first time.
More than 15,000 competitors from across Nigeria are expected in Lagos for the first edition, which will feature 28 sports at 10 venues between October 1 and 15. The city, widely regarded as a centre of African sport, will have the opportunity to demonstrate its experience in hosting major international events.
Aruna announced his support during a visit to Lagos Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso in Alausa, Ikeja. He attended with his wife, Ganiat, and their children.
“Nigerian sport has endured difficult times, and this project offers a strong route back to former standards,” Aruna said, stressing that progress must begin at grassroots level. He also praised the sustained backing for sport from the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noting that Lagos had been important to his own development.
He called on young athletes across the country to make full use of the platform. Drawing on his own experience, Aruna urged them to commit themselves, perform at their highest level, enjoy the occasion and absorb lessons that could help them beyond sport.
Aruna also recalled starting out in Oyo town, where he first handled a racket at seven simply for recreation. At that stage, he said, he had no expectation of achieving international recognition.
His message to the participants was one of confidence and discipline: they should remain focused, determined and willing to learn, while believing in their own ability. The phrase “Oyo to the World”, he added, could become a reality for athletes from every Nigerian community as they pursue opportunities on the global stage.
Omotoso, who chairs the Eko 2026 Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, welcomed the table tennis champion and said his backing carried considerable meaning.
“Aruna’s journey shows what dedication to a purpose can achieve,” Omotoso said. He noted that the star had begun in much the same way as many of the athletes due to compete in Lagos.
According to Omotoso, Aruna’s presence alongside the young competitors can give them added drive, resolve and direction. He believes the National Intermediate Games can provide the launchpad for these athletes to turn their promise into international success.
