Kuti Heads Nigerian Team for ITTF Regional Tournament in Lome

Teenage prodigy Matthew Kuti is set to capture the attention of spectators as Nigeria embarks on defending its title at the 2024 ITTF West Africa Regional Championships in Lome, Togo from April 25 to 27.

Having clinched two medals at the 13th African Games in Ghana, Kuti will be venturing into his first appearance at this regional competition, which acts as the qualifying ground for the upcoming 2024 African Championships scheduled to be held in Ethiopia in October.

Regarded as a strong contender for the title in Togo, Kuti will be up against tough competition from seasoned players such as former champion Oba Oba Kizito of Cote d’Ivoire and local favorite Fanny Kokou.

Despite the challenges ahead, the young champion from Lagos State will have a solid support system in Lome, with teammates Muiz Adegoke, Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, Samuel Boboye, and Matthew Fabunmi forming part of the men’s team.

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On the women’s side, African Games medalist Hope Udoaka will lead the charge alongside Ajoke Ojomu and promising junior talents Kabirat Ayooola, Aisha Rabiu, and Ize Sezue.

The team will be under the guidance of Dotun Omoniyi, who previously served as an assistant to the national coach Segun Toriola during the 13th African Games in Ghana.

In Lome, a total of 32 men and 29 women from Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Nigeria, Senegal, and the host nation Togo will compete in four categories (team and singles for both men and women).

Homegrown talent Fanny Kokou will lead the charge for the host team, supported by returnee Mawussi Agbetoglo, Assou Atarou, Desire Akakpo, and Elias Agbodjan, while the women’s team from Togo will feature Eli Akouto Amegee, Fanida Ayoko Amah, Golda Kayi Amah, Celine Mouzou, and Light Senami Maella Avodagbe.