ITTF Africa Honors Babatunde Obisanya's Legacy in Table Tennis

The African Table Tennis Federation, ITTF Africa, paid tribute to Nigerian table tennis legend Babatunde Obisanya, who died on October 6, 2026, at the age of 77 after a prolonged illness at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. In a statement signed by President Wahid Enitan Oshodi, the federation expressed deep sorrow, highlighting Obisanya's influence as a player, coach, and administrator.

He was instrumental in the growth of table tennis in Nigeria and Africa, mentoring world-class players like Segun Toriola and Monday Merotohun. Obisanya made history in 1968 as the first men’s singles champion of the Asoju Oba Cup and shared the Nigeria Sportsman of the Year award in 1976.

He served as head coach of the national team from 1976 to 2010 and remained active in sports administration. The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, led by President Adesoji Tayo, also mourned his passing, acknowledging his lasting impact on the sport and his role as a father figure to many players.