The second edition of the Pastor Charles Osazuwa National Open Table Tennis Championships will kick off on December 21 at the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
The four-day tournament, co-hosted with the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), will feature 12 events, including an event for the deaf.
Charles Osazuwa, sponsor and general supervisor of Rock of Ages Christian Assembly International, told reporters on Sunday that the tournament will showcase the best players and talent to come.
Mr Osazuwa said young people from across the country will take part in this year’s tournament, unlike the first edition which only included Edo players.
“Following the success of the first edition, I decided to extend the opportunity to young people from all over the country to inspire a new generation of table tennis players in the country.
“This edition of the tournament will feature the best players and talents to come from the federation.
“The cash prize is very good and I encourage those who haven’t registered to do so,†he said.
He said that in addition to the cash prizes, the tournament was a way to keep young people away from crime and other social vices.
“This development also aims to help the Edo State government engage young people and ensure they stay away from crime.
“For the best players and new players who will be discovered during the tournament, we will train and support them for international tournaments.
“I have long had a passion for table tennis from an early age.
“It was also my desire to empower young people to develop their talents in sport,” he said.
NTTF South-South President Ama-Ebi Ebikpolade congratulated the organizer for opening the tournament and encouraging others to emulate the sponsor.
“I’m sure this edition will be better compared to the first edition.
“Making this edition open to everyone is very commendable,†he said.
Also speaking, NTTF national coach Nosiru Bello said the federation is supporting the tournament because the organizer made everything available for a successful event.
He added that the tournament would also promote the growth of the sport in the country.
