Abuja, Nigeria– Nigeria’s tennis scene received a significant boost as Michael Emmanuel and Adesuwa Osabuohien emerged champions in the men’s and women’s singles categories at the 46th Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Open Tennis Championship, held at the National Stadium Tennis Centre, Abuja.
The week-long tournament concluded with thrilling finals, marking a major milestone for both athletes. Emmanuel captured his first major title with a hard-fought 7-6, 3-6, 6-2 victory over Ikenna Okonkwo in the men’s final. Visibly emotional, the rising star described the win as a turning point in his career. “I really wanted this — it’s my first national title. I’m happy and more determined now to pursue opportunities on the international stage,” he said.
In the women’s final, Adesuwa Osabuohien staged a determined comeback to defeat Emmanuel Essien 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a rain-interrupted match. Celebrating her first national tournament victory, she dedicated the win to aspiring female athletes and emphasized the value of perseverance. “No matter the odds, if you keep training and believing, success is possible,” she said. “We’re now focusing on the Billie Jean Cup and hoping to advance to Group 2.”
The event drew strong institutional support, with the Central Bank of Nigeria reaffirming its long-standing commitment to sports development. Representing the CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, lauded the athletes and reiterated the Bank’s belief in sports as a tool for national unity and youth empowerment.
“For over 40 years, the CBN has proudly championed tennis in Nigeria, not just as a sport but as a platform to inspire, empower, and unite,” Sidi-Ali said. She also highlighted the Bank’s broader support for youth through initiatives such as the Youth Entrepreneurship Development Program and the Creative Industry Financing Initiative.
President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Ifedayo Akindoju, expressed gratitude to the CBN for its unwavering sponsorship, noting that the partnership continues to be a pillar of the sport’s development in the country.
As the 46th edition comes to a close, both players and organizers expressed optimism that the tournament’s momentum will fuel further progress, positioning Nigeria for greater achievements on the global tennis stage.
By Enoch odesola/ July 28,2025
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