Minister of Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung, has congratulated Nigeria’s number
one Table Tennis player, Aruna Quadri for booking a ticket as Africa’s sole representative
to the ITTF World Cup in France. The Minister described the feat as a confirmation of the
Oyo state born ping pong star’s superiority in Africa and also his emergence as a force to
reckon with at the global level. “This victory has once again demonstrated the superiority
of Quadri in Africa. This is good news to us in the Ministry and also all sports loving
Nigerians who have been following his career.” Dalung described Aruna who recorded a hard
fought 4-3 victory over his continental rival, Omar Assar in the finals of the 2017 ITTF
Africa as a “true patriot and consummate professional.” “This is a master class act from a
true patriot and consummate professional who against all odds overcame all obstacles to
emerge as the King of Table Tennis in Africa.” The Minister promised that the ministry will
play its part in ensuring a good World Cup outing for Africa’s sole flag bearer he described
it as an “African Project.” “The federation must not wait till the 11th hour before they
approach the Ministry for assistance. The earlier they reach out, the better for all parties
involved” He advised that the Nigeria Table Tennis federation should put machinery in motion
to ensure that Aruna is given the needed preparation ahead of the tournament in France. “For
an event of this magnitude, the NTTF must explore all avenues to source for funds to give
Quadri the deserved training. The new board needs to shift its attention to the private
sector who are willing to associate with this growing brand in the global circle.” July 20,
2017 at the National Stadium, Abuja.
