14-year-old Matthew Kuti retains men’s title at ITTF West Africa Championships

Matthew Kuti is the champion of the men’s singles at the 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championship.

The 14-year-old defeated compatriot Abdulfatai Abdubasit 4-2 in the final on Saturday at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

The victory saw the teenager retain the regional title he won in Lome, Togo, in the last edition.

Kuti becomes the first player to defend the ITTF Africa West Regional Championship men’s singles title.

In the women’s singles, Ajoke Ojomu defeated Shukurat Aiyelabegan to clinch the gold medal.

Ojomu trounced her opponent in a thrilling 4-0 victory to secure the title.

The women’s champion said the victory was a reward for her loss in the last edition where she had to withdraw due to injury.

“I’m excited but in a lot of pain. It’s really a mixed feeling for me.

“I’m the top-ranked female player here. Playing teammates is always hard because we often face each other on the national team.

“I’m grateful for this win. It’s been a long journey. Reaching the final three times without winning can be very disheartening.

“At the last tournament in Togo, I reached the final but had to retire due to injury. It was heartbreaking.

“Today, I almost suffered the same fate. I felt the pain again, but I pushed through, and I’m grateful.”