Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, the wife of the Governor of Cross River state, has commended the Canaan Table Tennis Club for their outstanding performance at the African Table Tennis Club Championship held in Tunisia. The club, representing the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), clinched a bronze medal, making Nigeria and Cross River State proud on the continental stage.
The Canaan Queens, the female team of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, emerged as one of the top performers out of 54 participating countries in the tournament. Their remarkable performance has been celebrated as a historic achievement for Nigerian table tennis and a testament to the talent and dedication of the players.
In a statement released to the Chairman on Tuesday, Bishop Otu praised the team for their hard work, resilience, and determination. Known for her passion for the empowerment of the girl child and her commitment to humanity, Bishop Otu highlighted the significance of the Canaan Queens’ success as an inspiration to young girls across Nigeria.
“The Canaan Table Tennis Club has made us proud once again. Their performance in Tunisia is not just a victory for Cross River State but for the entire nation. As someone who is deeply passionate about the empowerment of the girl child, I am particularly inspired by the Canaan Queens, who have shown that with determination and hard work, girls can achieve greatness in any field,” Bishop Otu said.
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She also commended the club’s management and coaches for their role in nurturing the talents of the players, adding that their success is a reflection of the state’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.
Bishop Otu also acknowledged the support of her husband, Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whose administration has consistently encouraged sports development in the state. She noted that the governor’s commitment to providing the necessary resources and motivation for athletes has played a significant role in the team’s success.
“I must also appreciate my husband, His Excellency Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his unwavering support for sports and youth development in Cross River State. His encouragement has greatly inspired the players, and this victory is a testament to his vision for a state where young people can thrive and excel,” she added.
Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club and Cross River State’s representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), had congratulated the team for their superlative performance. He described the victory as a proud moment for Nigeria and Cross River State, positioning the country as a force to reckon with in global sports.
“This victory once again positions Nigeria as one of the best in the world, both in table tennis and in other sports. We are proud of the Canaan Queens and grateful for the support of the Cross River State government, which has been instrumental in this achievement,” Duke said.
