Nigeria's Quadri Aruna Leads Team at ITTF Championships

Nigeria will commence its campaign at the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships, which kicks off today in London, marking a historic return to the tournament since its debut in 1926. Quadri Aruna leads the men's team, which is grouped with Hong Kong, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia.

The women's squad, featuring experienced players Fatimo Bello and Ajok Ojomu, faces a more uncertain path, relying on emerging talent like Sukurat Aiyelabegan and Udoaka. The tournament runs until May 10 and will take place across two venues in London, including the Copper Box Arena.

The African teams are expected to face tough competition, with Egypt being a notable powerhouse in table tennis, represented by Omar Assar, ranked world No. 20, and Hana Goda. The men's team is drawn against Thailand, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, while the women's team will compete against Belgium, South Africa, and Algeria, with Algeria entering the tournament with optimism due to the debut of teenage sensation Tania Jade Moric.