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As preparations intensify for the 2026 Michael & Felicia Alabi Memorial Table Tennis Tournament, scheduled to hold from April 12 to April 17, 2026, the tournament organizing committee has continued its engagement with key traditional and community stakeholders in Ile-Ife.
Earlier this week, the Tournament Director, Aderotimi Adedire (Ijinle Oro), General Manager, Idera 105.3FM, Otan Ayegbaju, alongside other members of the delegation, paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the revered Ooni of Ife, to formally present the tournament and seek royal support for the upcoming sporting event.
Although the Oonirisa was unavoidably absent at the time of the visit, the delegation was warmly received by palace representatives. The official Sponsorship Package for the tournament was presented to the Personal Assistant to the Traditional Secretary, who graciously accepted it on behalf of the monarch and assured the team that it would be delivered directly to His Imperial Majesty.
The visit was part of the organizers’ commitment to strengthening ties with the traditional institution and ensuring the tournament continues to enjoy the cultural and community backing that has helped it grow over the years.
Following the palace visit, the delegation proceeded to Ojaja Grand Resort in Ile-Ife, where they paid a courtesy visit to one of the Oloris of the Ooni, Olori Fadekemi Adeyeye Ogunwusi. The purpose of the visit was to formally invite her to participate as one of the distinguished sponsors of the 2026 tournament.
The reception was both warm and memorable. The Queen received the delegation with remarkable humility and respect, creating a moment that deeply impressed the visiting team. In a touching cultural exchange, she nearly knelt in greeting, prompting members of the delegation to quickly prostrate in return, honoring Yoruba tradition and royal etiquette.
During the meeting, the delegation presented the tournament sponsorship package, which Her Majesty graciously received. After briefly reviewing the materials, she opened the package and immediately put on the official tournament fez cap, a symbolic gesture that was warmly celebrated by everyone present.
Her action was widely interpreted as a sign of strong endorsement for the Michael & Felicia Alabi Memorial Table Tennis Tournament. She further expressed her delight at hosting the delegation and assured them of her support, promising to attend the event during the tournament period.
The upcoming tournament, which continues to grow in prominence within Nigeria’s table tennis community, aims to celebrate the legacy of Michael and Felicia Alabi while promoting youth development, sportsmanship, and excellence in table tennis.
With royal goodwill, community support, and increasing sponsorship interest, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet.
The organizing committee has encouraged athletes, fans, and stakeholders to look forward to an exciting week of competitive table tennis and community celebration in Ile-Ife from April 12 to April 17, 2026.
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