The Shaibu D. Mohamed North Central Table Tennis Tournament is set to kick off its maiden edition at the NIWA sports complex/canteen, Marine road beside INEC Head office Lokoja from the 15th to the 17th of December, 2023.
The table tennis competition is aimed at engaging youths, grooming talents and making the youths channel their energy towards positive use.
The tournament, named after its visionary founder Shaibu D. Mohamed, is a grassroots initiative with the primary goal of promoting active engagement in sports among the youth.
Speaking to reporters from the Kogi chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Shaibu noted that, recognizing the role sports can play in fostering discipline, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle, while hoping to create a positive impact on the participants’ lives.
According to him, the choice of Lokoja, the capital city of Kogi State, as the tournament venue underscores the commitment to engaging communities in the North Central region. The NIWA SPORTS COMPLEX/CANTEEN, located beside the INEC Head Office, provides an ideal setting for the tournament, offering state-of-the-art facilities to enhance the overall experience for players and spectators alike.
He added that, one of the tournament’s key highlights is its emphasis on grassroots participation, encouraging young talents to showcase their skills on the table tennis court. By involving the local youth in sporting activities, the organizers aim to provide an alternative and constructive outlet for their energy, steering them away from the allure of criminality.
As a testament to the event’s significance, distinguished individuals and community leaders have been invited to attend. The presence of notable figures adds prestige to the tournament and underscores the collective effort to address societal challenges through collaborative initiatives.
Shaibu further disclosed that the tournament is expected to draw participants from various communities within the North Central region, fostering a spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie. Beyond the competitive aspect, the event also serves as a platform for social interaction, cultural exchange, and community building.
The Shaibu D. Mohamed North Central Table Tennis Tournament stands as a beacon of hope, utilizing sports as a tool to empower the youth, promote community engagement, and contribute to the overall well-being of society. As the inaugural edition unfolds, it is anticipated that the tournament will leave a lasting impact on the participating youth, inspiring them to pursue excellence both on and off the table tennis court.