Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots sports development in Nigeria, emphasizing collaboration with the private sector, state governments, and organizations like the International Tennis Academy (ITA). Speaking at the Sapetro Futures Tournament held at Ikoyi Club over the weekend, Dikko expressed optimism about positioning Nigeria as a global sports powerhouse.
“My attending this event underlines the emphasis we are going to place on grassroots sports development going forward,” Dikko stated. “We will work with the states to identify the best talent across all major sports, starting from age 10. With the support of all stakeholders, Nigeria will never again return from an Olympic Games empty-handed.”
The Sapetro Futures Championship featured intense competition in the Boys’ and Girls’ 12s, 14s, and 16s categories, showcasing impressive skills and tactics from the young athletes.
Bayelsa State dominated the Boys’ and Girls’ 12s categories, with Excellency Oginiba defeating Oyo State’s Ghazal Ashim, while Karina Opuene edged out Barakat Ganiyu, also from Oyo, in a thrilling three-set match.
Lagos’ rising star, Mofi Atilola, shone brightly, securing the Girls’ 14s title by defeating Ekiti State’s Success Godwin in straight sets. However, she fell to Ekiti’s Goodnews Aina in the Girls’ 16s final. Aina, a back-to-back champion in her category, continues to dominate the junior tennis scene.
In the Boys’ 16s, Ondo State’s Gbolahan Olawale emerged victorious, defeating Oyo’s Onyekachi Ogumjiofor in the finals. Isa Yahaya from Lagos claimed the Boys’ 14s title with a commanding straight-sets victory over Abuja’s Goodluck Tersoo.
Special recognition was given to the most improved players, Tolu Agunbiade from Calabar and Onyekachi Ogumjiofor, highlighting their exceptional progress in the sport.
Godwin Kienka, ITA Director, praised the high level of competition and organization, reinforcing the abundance of talent in Nigeria.
The tournament concluded with NSC Chairman Dikko presenting a “Thank You” plaque to Sapetro Managing Director, Emeke Anagbogu, who lauded the competition as a testament to Nigeria’s potential to excel on the global stage.
