By Suleiman Shehu
The President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Dr Adesoji Tayo, has advised inmates in the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Agodi, Ibadan, not to underestimate themselves and consider building careers in table tennis.
Tayo gave the advice at the 2026 Table Tennis Competition organised for inmates by the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Agodi, Ibadan.
5th person from the left, President, Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) Dr Adesoji Tayo, Officer in Charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre Agodi Ibadan, Akadiri David and others during the 2026 Table Tennis Competition organised by the centre for inmates on Wednesday in Ibadan.
The NTTF President said that a lot of people had built successful careers in table tennis and were performing excellently in Nigeria and abroad.
“Sports is a shortcut to succeed in life and playing table tennis helps to energise one’s body and make one healthier.
“Channel your energy to any sport that comes your way because many people have used opportunities in sports to succeed in Nigeria and other climes,” he said.
Tayo commended the inmates that participated in the competition for playing excellently and urged them not to relent.
He said that if they continue to excel in their performance, the chances are there that they could meet people to support them when released from custody.
“Everybody loves to see talented people.
“We want to ensure that these talented individuals have opportunities and support them when they complete their time here and return to society,” the NTTF president said.
Tayo commended the authorities at the Agodi Medium Security Custodial Centre for introducing sporting activities to the inmates and the inmates’ desire for reform and rehabilitation.
The NTTF president also pledged to contribute his quota to improving the condition of the custodial centre in making it more conducive for sporting activities and learning.
“We are going to equip them with enough equipment so that the inmates have something to practise and play with.
“One other thing you need to consider is the fact that the environment is not conducive to playing the game.
“They are currently playing outdoors, so we will support them in making the place at least reasonably suitable for table tennis and other activities,” he said.
Earlier, the officer in charge of the centre, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Akadiri David, commended the NTTF president and his colleague, Mr Ademola Ajibike for attending the final of the competition.
David said that the competition was organised in order to improve the physical and mental well-being of inmates, as well as rehabilitate and support the broader objectives of the correctional system.
He said that sporting activities assist the government in effectively managing the affairs of inmates in custody, adding that regular physical exercise promotes good health and helps reduce the frequency of illness among inmates.
“With exercise they cheer themselves up, and, for a while, forget about some of the challenges they are facing.
“It also helps them clear their minds, think positively, and consider the next steps in their lives.
“For those awaiting trial, it can give them the opportunity to think about how to pursue their bail applications.
“For those who have been convicted, it encourages them to think about their plans for the future and what they intend to do when they leave this place.
“Some of the inmates who performed well on the field today have demonstrated considerable talent.
“When they leave here, they may be able to participate in sporting competitions, become successful athletes, and ultimately make a name for themselves across Nigeria,” David said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that in the final of the singles match, an awaiting trial inmate, Tunde Lasisi, defeated his opponent, Ayoola Sunday, a convicted inmate, thereby emerging winner.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bayo Sekoni