From April 12 to April 17, 2026, the ancient town of Otan Ayegbaju in Osun State will once again become the centre of Nigerian table tennis as top players from across the country converge to compete for honours in multiple categories.

The occasion is the sixth Michael and Felicia Alabi Memorial Table Tennis Tournament, scheduled to hold at the Idera Multipurpose Hall. Over the years, the championship has grown into one of Nigeria’s most prestigious table tennis events.

Established in honour of the late Michael and Felicia Alabi, the tournament has evolved beyond its memorial roots to become a strong platform for discovering and nurturing future champions.

The competition has consistently provided emerging talents with opportunities to showcase their skills on the national stage while giving established athletes a chance to reaffirm their dominance.

Today, it serves as an important bridge between grassroots development and elite competition, promoting resilience, inclusivity, and excellence.

The 2026 edition promises to be the biggest yet, with over 250 players from all 36 states of the federation expected to participate, turning Otan Ayegbaju into a vibrant hub of sporting activity.

Young prospects, seasoned professionals, veterans, para-athletes, and deaf athletes will compete in the tournament, reflecting its strong commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity in sports.

Competition categories will range from Under-15 singles to veteran, para, and deaf divisions, ensuring that athletes of different abilities and experience levels have a platform to showcase their talent.

Beyond the matches, the tournament is expected to attract coaches, scouts, sports administrators, and enthusiasts from across the country, further strengthening its reputation as a key pipeline for Nigerian table tennis talent.

For the six-day event, Otan Ayegbaju is also expected to witness increased economic activity, as hotels, transport services, and local businesses prepare to host visitors and participants.

More importantly, young people in the host community will have the rare opportunity to witness high-level competition firsthand — an experience that could inspire the next generation of table tennis champions.

As anticipation builds, fans and stakeholders are preparing for days of thrilling rallies, tactical brilliance, and memorable sporting moments.

Supported by the Osun State Government, the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation, and the Osun State Table Tennis Association, the sixth Michael and Felicia Alabi Memorial Tournament is not just a competition but a celebration of unity, diversity, and the enduring spirit of Nigerian sport.