At just five years old, Ayomide Omotoso had little grasp of the magnitude of the challenge before him.

To him, it was all about the thrill of bouncing around the arena, eager to taste what it meant to feature in a national competition.

Though his small frame barely reached the height of the table, his determination was unmistakable as he stepped into the Indoor Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos, for the 7th Adegboyega Efunkoya U-15 National Table Tennis Tournament.

Before his name was even called to table seven, Omotoso brimmed with confidence, imagining he could manoeuvre past seasoned opponents. Reality struck quickly: the pace and skill of his rivals proved overwhelming. Yet, rather than discouragement, each rally became a lesson. Point by point, as if tutored by his opponents, the young prodigy soaked in the experience, savouring every moment despite being outplayed in all his matches.

Beyond the score line, Omotoso’s joy was infectious. He was the youngest competitor in this year’s tournament, and his excitement at participating in his very first national event eclipsed any disappointment.

“I am very happy playing because I love table tennis. My dad taught me the game. My opponents are far better than me, but I hope to keep training so I can play better next time,” he said with a smile.

Omotoso, son of Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, radiated pride when interviewed about his performance. His presence was a reminder that passion, not age, defines the spirit of competition.

This year’s tournament, organised by the Efunkoya Sports Foundation in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), drew over 130 participants—82 boys and 54 girls—over three days of spirited play.

For Segun Adegboyega, first son of the late Dr Adegboyega Efunkoya, former NTTF president, the event was more than a competition; it was a continuation of his father’s legacy.

“I am so proud and satisfied with what I see today. My father was a passionate table tennis administrator who insisted that players must combine sports with education. With tournaments like this, we can discover talents who will not only make Nigeria proud but also grow into useful individuals in society,” he reflected.