Nigerian table tennis legend, Aruna Quadri has raised serious concerns over the current financial state of the sport in the country and globally, stating that the monetary incentives available today pale in comparison to the past.
In an interview, Quadri did not mince words as he spoke on the growing costs for athletes and the limited earnings from competitions, revealing how it has become increasingly difficult for players to sustain their careers especially without support from national sporting authorities.
“Seriously, with the way things are going, I really don’t have the belief that it will get better and better.”
The 2014 ITTF Star Player of the Year and 2020 Olympic quarter-finalist, spoke on the long-standing lack of continuity in Nigerian table tennis, citing how talent comes in isolated waves over decades due to poor structures and support.
“After we have one great player, it always takes decades to have another one. Like it took Toriola to be on the same level like Atanda Musa.”
“Then after Toriola, it was so long again to have another good player. And somehow it will even be much more difficult because now there is absolutely zero support from the federal government to the federation.”
“They don’t pay nothing…” – Aruna Quadri
Quadri criticized the Nigerian government’s neglect of the sport, saying the federation receives no financial backing and, as a result, players are left on their own to find sponsorships, travel, and tournament fees.
“So they don’t pay nothing and if you don’t pay nothing, you can practice and practice without tournament.”
“Then, you know, nothing will come out of it. And some of the players are not so opportune to have clubs in Europe who they can earn very good salary and reinvest.”
“It’s very difficult…” – Aruna Quadri
For many Nigerian players who aren’t as fortunate to play for top clubs in Europe like Quadri, the reality is grim.
An emotional Quadri said the system makes it nearly impossible for emerging players to flourish or reach the international stage.
“So it’s very difficult if things keep going the same way. I mean, if government is not giving some kind of priority financially to sport of table tennis.”
While Aruna Quadri believes Nigeria is rich in untapped talent despite the challenges, he insists that without sustained investment and strategic support, the country will continue to struggle in nurturing new champions.
“However, I believe if government give a lot of priority financial support, we have much more better players than me, than Toriola and Atanda Musa.“
Not Just About the Glory
Quadri concluded his thoughts by underscoring the harsh economic truth behind the glitz of podium finishes and medals:
“Everything looks beautiful, but nobody is winning money.”
Background
Aruna Quadri is Africa’s most accomplished table tennis player, becoming the first African to reach the quarter-finals at an Olympic Games in the sport.
Quadri has once again ignited the conversation on the urgent need for reform in Nigerian sports funding especially for disciplines like table tennis, which once produced global stars but now face dwindling participation and performance levels.
