Universal Archaivar Elders (Ẹgbẹ́ Àgbà Ẹlẹ́mù) has officially unveiled plans for the 2026 UAE Table Tennis Tournament and Community Medical Outreach (COMO 2), with traditional rulers, sports administrators, table tennis icons, and community leaders pledging support for the twin initiatives.
The projects were unveiled during a World Media Briefing held at the Royal Resort, Iyaganku, Ibadan, Oyo State, ahead of the August 8–9, 2026 event scheduled for the Adamasingba Stadium.
Speaking at the briefing, President of Universal Archaivar Elders, Basorun Fayth Deleola Daramola, described the tournament and medical outreach as flagship programmes designed to promote sports development, healthcare delivery, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and community service.
He said the initiatives reflect the organisation’s commitment to using sports and humanitarian interventions as tools for societal development and national unity.
Daramola thanked members, patrons, sponsors, partners, the Local Organising Committee, and other stakeholders for their support in bringing the vision to reality.
He also appealed to corporate organisations, government agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to partner with the group to ensure the success of the programmes.
Representing the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ọba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, HRH Oladele Olasoji Vincent, the Sooko Adimula Ọbàlùfọ̀n, conveyed the monarch’s goodwill and commended Universal Archaivar Elders for promoting Yoruba culture, unity, and community development.
He described the tournament and medical outreach as initiatives that align with the values and heritage of the Yoruba people, urging the organisation to sustain its efforts in preserving cultural traditions for future generations.
Also speaking, the Gegun of Ayetoro Òkè, Oyo State, His Royal Majesty Ọba Nojeemdeen Afolabi, praised the organisation’s leadership for combining sports, healthcare, and cultural promotion into a single community-focused programme.
Nigeria’s pioneering table tennis star, Mama Bilikisu Popoola, who represented the country at the 1969 World Table Tennis Championships in Germany, applauded the organisers for commemorating the centenary of table tennis through the initiative. She said the tournament would help preserve the legacy of the sport while inspiring younger players.
Table tennis legend Chief Waidi Ẹkún also lauded the organisers, describing the competition as a significant contribution to grassroots sports development and a platform for promoting unity and friendship through sports.
Representing the President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Dr. Tayo Adesoji, Hajia Idiat Aderibigbe reaffirmed the federation’s support for the tournament, commending the organisers for their professionalism and vision.
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A major highlight of the briefing was an exhibition table tennis match between Chief Baba Oyafemi, regarded as the most senior living chief of the Kegites Club, and Chief 1-1 Leg of the National Headquarters. The friendly contest drew applause from guests as it symbolised unity, fellowship, and healthy competition.
Speakers at the event unanimously commended Universal Archaivar Elders for its contributions to humanitarian service, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and community development.
The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the successful hosting of the UAE Table Tennis Tournament 2026 and Community Medical Outreach (COMO 2), scheduled to hold on August 8 and 9 at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan.
The organisers said the programmes are aimed at strengthening communities through sports, healthcare, cultural preservation, and selfless service, in line with the organisation’s philosophy of “Unity Beyond One-Finger Salute.”
Pics from the event:
