Abuja: Michael Emmanuel and Adesuwa Osabuohien have emerged champions in the men's and women's singles categories respectively, at the 46th edition of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Open Tennis Championship in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the championship, held at the Tennis Court of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, was organised by the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) and sponsored by CBN.
In the men's singles final, Emmanuel defeated Ikenna Okonkwo in a competitive match with scores of 7-6, 3-6, 6-2. Meanwhile, in the women's singles final, Adesuwa Osabuohien overcame Emmanuel Essien 2-1 in a match that was interrupted by rain. After losing the first set, Osabuohien bounced back to win 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to secure the title.
Osabuohien's path to the final included victories over Khadijat Salami, Timipre Maxwell, Mary Udofa, and Blessing Omotayo. Essien's journey to the final saw her defeating opponents like Bajo Punriniman, Blessing Otu, Blessing Etoro, and Aina Goodnews.
President of the NTF, Ifedayo Akindoju, expressed gratitude towards CBN for their continued sponsorship of the tournament after a two-year hiatus. He emphasized the tournament's role in providing a platform for athletes to grow and compete at high levels.
Governor of CBN, Olayemi Cardoso, represented by Hakama Sidi-Ali, highlighted the championship's role in nurturing talents and promoting excellence. Cardoso also mentioned the CBN Junior Tennis Tournament's role in grooming young talents for the Senior Open.
In the doubles category, Canice Abua and Michael Emmanuel claimed victory in the men's doubles, while Goodnews Aina and Favour Moses triumphed in the women's doubles.
The 46th edition of the CBN Tennis Championship reaffirmed its status as a premier sporting event in Nigeria, attracting top talents and emphasizing the importance of investment in tennis development.