Aruna Quadri Laments Poor State Of Table Tennis In Nigeria

Aruna Quadri Laments Poor State Of Table Tennis In Nigeria

Sampson Adedeji

Nigerian table tennis star Aruna Quadri has expressed deep concern over the current state of the sport in the country, highlighting a lack of support and growing financial challenges faced by players, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking in an interview with Brila FM, Quadri did not hold back, revealing how the sport is suffering due to the rising cost of participation and the lack of meaningful financial backing from the authorities.

“Honestly, with the way things are going, I don’t believe it’s going to get any better,” he said.

He pointed out the long gaps between the emergence of top-level players in Nigeria, referencing past legends: “After one great player emerges, it takes decades to find another. It took Toriola a long time to match Atanda Musa’s level. And after Toriola, it took another long stretch to produce someone else.”

Quadri further criticized the lack of government support, stating, “Right now, there is zero support from the federal government to the federation. They don’t fund anything. You can train all you want, but without tournaments, there’s no progress.”

He also highlighted how only a few fortunate players secure contracts with European clubs, which provide them with financial stability and the chance to grow. For most, however, the reality is bleak.

“It’s tough if things continue this way. If the government doesn’t give financial priority to table tennis, it’ll be even harder to produce quality players.”

Despite the grim outlook, Quadri believes in the potential of Nigerian talent.

“With proper financial support, we could have players better than me, Toriola, and Atanda Musa,” he concluded.

“Everything may look nice on the surface, but no one is making any money.”