In an audio message by Aruna, the Oyo state-born athlete said the gesture was borne out of his desire to help more players to reach the top level.

“I am using this opportunity to thank the table tennis family for their support in this trying time and to urge us to stay safe as we continue to fight this pandemic globally. In my usual way of giving back to society, as well as supporting new talents in Nigeria, I will be supporting some players at the 2021 NTTF National Championships and I wish all the players best of luck and let the tournament begin!” Quadri Aruna

Speaking during the presentation in Lagos, Chair of the ITTF Nominations Committee, Wahid Enitan Oshodi, said Aruna has become a shining light in table tennis with his gesture toward young players in the country, while urging other top players to take a lead from him.

Oshodi also announced the four new players who had distinguished themselves during the National Championship would also benefit from Aruna’s gesture during the grand finale on Saturday 22nd May.

World number one in the under 13 age group Musa Mustapha and his sibling, Mustapha Mustapha from Borno State, as well as Kabirat Ayoola of Oyo State and Aishat Rabiu, are the four cadet players that will be supported by Aruna for one year.

The duo of Taiwo Mati and Azeez Solanke will receive a renewal of their sponsorship for a further year.

A delighted Mati commended Aruna for the support, while promising to continue to work harder to emulate the African champion.

Other players that have benefited from Aruna’s kit sponsorship includes Sukurat Aiyelabegan (Kwara), Muiz Olanrewaju (Oyo), Nurudeen Hassan (Lagos), Olajide Omotayo (Lagos), Fatimo Bello (Lagos), Abdulahi Afolabi (Lagos), Taiwo Balogun (Lagos), Ademola Abiola (Oyo) and Tobi Falana (Kwara).

Paralympics debutants Isau Ogunkunle (Ogun) and Faith Obazuaye (Delta) have also benefited.

Each player will receive two pairs of racket coverings, blade, training shirts, shorts, tracksuit, shoes, socks, towel, bat case, backpack and cap.