NTTF Petitions ITTF After Nigerian Youth Players Denied Visas for World Championships
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 27 — 11
The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) has filed an official petition to the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) following the refusal of entry visas for its players scheduled to compete at the 2025 World Youth Championships in Romania.
The development has raised significant concern across Nigeria’s table tennis community, with many describing it as a major setback that could undermine the nation’s representation at one of the sport’s most prestigious global youth competitions.
In a strongly worded letter signed by NTTF President Adesoji Tayo, the federation condemned the visa denial, calling it a breach of international sports values, fairness, and inclusive participation.
“As an official representative of Nigeria and Africa in this prestigious global event, I firmly believe that the reasons provided for the visa refusal are unjust, discriminatory, and contrary to the spirit of unity which international sports is designed to foster,” Tayo stated.
The affected players and coaches, who had undergone weeks of intensive preparation, have been left disappointed, while the federation counts financial losses incurred during the build-up to the championship.
Nigeria was billed to represent Africa in the boys’ U-19 and U-15 team events, having earned qualification as continental champions at the African Youth Championships held earlier in Lagos.
