Offiong Edem made history as she became the first Nigerian athlete to secure a medal at the 2024 African Games in Ghana.
The Spain-based table tennis star showcased exceptional skill and determination, claiming a spot among the top three in the women’s singles event, Sports247 reports.
Edem’s journey to the podium was marked by standout performances, particularly in the last 16 and quarter-finals, where she overcame formidable opponents, including the Alhodaby twins, Marwa and Mariam. Her victories propelled her into the esteemed league of medallists in the women’s singles category, setting the stage for a thrilling semifinal showdown.
Facing off against defending champion Dina Meshref of Egypt in the semifinals, Offiong Edem faced a formidable challenge. Despite her best efforts, she ultimately succumbed to a 4-0 defeat, settling for the bronze medal, a feat she had previously achieved at the 2019 edition in Rabat, Morocco.
Reflecting on her achievement, Offiong Edem expressed gratitude for the support she received from the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation and credited her experience at the last World Championships in Korea for enhancing her performance. “I am so happy that we were able to attend the last World Championships in Korea, and this really helped my game a lot,” she remarked.
Acknowledging the dominance of Egyptian players in African table tennis, Offiong Edem highlighted the need for Nigeria to increase its participation in international competitions to narrow the gap. “The Egyptians are ahead of us because they attend more competitions than us, and we hope we can get such support to return to the top of the game in Africa,” she emphasized.
Edem’s historic achievement not only underscores her exceptional talent but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring Nigerian athletes, highlighting the potential for success on the international stage. As she celebrates her bronze medal triumph, Edem’s journey stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication in pursuit of sporting excellence.
