By Victor Okoye
Olusola Odumosu, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) FCT Command, says the tennis tournament held in his honour targets grassroots sports development and youth engagement.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the three-day event began Wednesday and ended Friday at Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Odumosu, who marked his birthday with the tournament, said it was designed to discover talents and inspire young players nationwide.
“This initiative is about building the future of tennis from the grassroots and giving youths opportunities to excel,” Odumosu said.
He added that sports remain a unifying tool and a pathway to discipline, health, and national development, as well as a means to steer youths away from crime.
“Sports can positively engage our youths, reduce criminal tendencies, and channel their energy into productive ventures,” he said.
“I believe investing in young athletes will strengthen our sporting culture and create champions for tomorrow,” he added.
Coach Samuel Sunday of the FCT Tennis Association lauded the efforts of the commandant in promoting grassroots tennis development.
“This tournament is a laudable initiative that has provided a platform for young players to showcase their talents and gain exposure,” Sunday said.
He called on other well-meaning individuals and organisations to support sports development at the grassroots level.
“We need more stakeholders to invest in these young talents, as government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility,” he added.
Sunday said the FCT can boast of a pool of talented players eager for opportunities to excel in the sport.
“FCT remains a hub for grassroots tennis development, with players from other states coming here for training and talent discovery,” he said.
NAN reports that in the men’s category, Nigeria’s top-ranked player Canice Abua defeated Lucky Danjuma, the fourth-ranked opponent, 7-5, 6-4 to win the top prize.
Unity Alex beat Khaleed Dalha in straight sets to win the boys’ singles title at the tournament.
Salvation Alex defeated Opeyemi Olademeji to emerge winner of the girls’ singles category. (NAN)
Edited by Emmanuel Afonne
