HON. AKINLAYO INAUGURATES EKITI TABLE TENNIS ASSOCIATION MEMBERS, DR. OSETOBA REAFFIRMS GOV. OYEBANJI’S SPORT VISION.
In a renewed effort to advance table tennis in Ekiti State, Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo, MHR, inaugurated members of the Ekiti State Table Tennis Association, emphasizing the need for structured grassroots development and improved infrastructure. Dr. Osetoba, Technical Advisor on Sports Development, commended the Association’s formation and assured full government backing, stressing the importance of aligning with Governor Oyebanji’s vision for sports development.
The newly inaugurated members are Aisida Sola (Patron), Pastor Omogeye Peter (Member), Otunba Rotimi Oluwatayo (Member), Mr. Abiodun Aina Oluwadare (Member), Dr. Adeola Sola (Member) and Mrs. Adebusuyi R.F. (Secretary)
Hon. Akinlayo, who had previously been inaugurated as Chairman, reaffirmed his commitment to tackling key challenges hindering the sport’s progress in Ekiti, including limited infrastructure, inadequate funding, and lack of grassroots programs. To address these issues, he outlined a strategic plan that includes:
- Developing and upgrading training facilities across the state.
- Launching grassroots talent discovery programs in schools and communities.
- Securing sponsorships and partnerships to support training and competitions.
- Organizing regular championships to enhance players’ competitive exposure.
- Training and empowering coaches to improve the technical standard of the sport.
- Promoting community engagement through awareness campaigns and school initiatives.
As a demonstration of his dedication, Hon. Akinlayo pledged ₦5,000,000 to support the Association’s activities and ensure an immediate rollout of its initiatives.
Dr. Osetoba praised Hon. Akinlayo’s proactive approach and financial commitment, expressing confidence that under his leadership, table tennis in Ekiti will thrive, with increased participation in local, national, and international championships, including the National Sports Festival, National Youth Games, and Federation Competitions.
She encouraged Hon. Akinlayo and the council to organize local championships to unearth new talents and emphasized the importance of procuring modern equipment to improve athletes’ performance. Additionally, she highlighted the need for financial transparency, ensuring accountability in sponsorships and resource management.
Dr. Osetoba also requested that the council collaborate closely with her office to align with the state’s official sports development plans.
Hon. Akinlayo assured Dr. Osetoba and other stakeholders of his commitment to grassroots sports development. He announced plans to structure competitions from the local government level to the senatorial districts, leading to state-level championships, creating a pathway for emerging talents to represent Ekiti on the national and global stage.
With this strategic collaboration between the Table Tennis Council and the government, Ekiti State is set for a new era of sporting excellence.
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