By Wakawaka Sports
Chief Chima Duruaku, sponsor of the Omereibe Safari Table Tennis Championship, has promised a bigger and more exciting second edition of the annual competition, urging officials to ensure fairness and impartiality.
Duruaku, who spoke during the opening ceremony of the 2026 championship, said the tournament was designed to promote the philosophy of a sound body in a sound mind while bringing members of Safari Recreation Club together through sports and fellowship.
He expressed optimism that the competition would produce exciting encounters and unexpected results, recalling how some favourites were beaten by underdogs at last year’s inaugural edition.
The sponsor urged tournament officials to remain firm and impartial, while encouraging members of the club, popularly known as Safarians, to participate actively and enjoy the competition.
President of Safari Recreation Club, Chief Cyprian Inegbu, commended Duruaku for his commitment to the club and for fulfilling his promises. He also encouraged members to identify with and participate in at least one section of the recreational club.
The opening ceremony featured an exhibition match between Imo State Table Tennis Coach, Chris Nwankwo, and Kosisochukwu Chukwuemeka, ranked number one in Imo State and the South-East.
Nwankwo won the two recorded games 11–4 and 18–16 in an entertaining display of skill and tactical awareness, with Dr Kenneth Emeghara officiating as umpire.
In recognition of their participation, Duruaku presented ₦10,000 each to the two exhibition players, while Juliet Egekwu contributed ₦2,000 in support of the event. Chief ABC Duruaku presented the cash gifts on behalf of the sponsor.
Meanwhile, preliminary matches have produced exciting results, with Joe Osuji defeating Ada Madu 3–0, while Johnson Ofoegbu recorded a convincing 3–0 victory over Chima Orji.
Osuji will face Kenneth Emeghara in the next round, while Ofoegbu is scheduled to play Sam Akagha.
The captain of the table tennis section thanked the sponsor, club members and technical committee for their contributions to the successful opening ceremony.
The Omereibe Safari Table Tennis Championship aims to promote sporting excellence, physical fitness, friendship and unity among members of Safari Recreation Club.
