Bayelsa’s rising table tennis star, Samuel Boboye, delivered a dominant performance on Thursday as he outclassed Akwa Ibom State coach Kufre in a highly anticipated challenge match at The Fortress in Yenagoa. The exhibition duel, staged as part of activities marking the Governor Douye Diri National Table Tennis Championship, ended 2–0 in favour of the Bayelsa champion, earning him an instant cash prize of ₦100,000.
The encounter drew fans, athletes and officials who packed the indoor sports hall to witness the clash between the young Bayelsa talent and the experienced Akwa Ibom tactician. Boboye displayed impressive agility, precision and composure throughout the match, controlling rallies and forcing errors from his opponent.
Organisers described the challenge as a unique addition to the championship, aimed at entertaining spectators and rewarding exceptional skills outside the main tournament bracket. Boboye’s victory was met with loud cheers as officials presented him with the ₦100,000 reward moments after the final point.
Speaking after the match, Boboye expressed gratitude to the Bayelsa sports authorities for their continuous support and promised to keep improving his game. “Playing in front of our home crowd gives me confidence. I’m happy for the win and the encouragement,” he said.
The Governor Douye Diri National Table Tennis Championship continues in Yenagoa, featuring top athletes from across Nigeria competing for titles in various categories, as Bayelsa positions itself as a growing hub for national-level table tennis development.
