By Vivian Ahanmisi
Mofifuoluwa Atilola defeated Adesewa Olaniyan on Sunday to win gold in the U-18 girls’ final of the second Ayida Foundation’s Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition was staged at the Lagos Lawn tennis Club, Onikan, Lagos.
The U-18 girls’ final was an intense showdown, with Atilola and Olaniyan engaging in a fierce competition for the coveted gold medal.
Atilola, 12-year-old, beat Olaniyan 6-1, 6-0 to secure the title, confirming her status as a top contender in the tournament.
The U-18 girls champion expressed her joy and gratitude after winning the gold medal.
Atilola commended the Ayida Foundation for organising the tournament, saying it provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and improve their skills.
“I feel very happy and grateful to have won the gold medal.
“It was a tough tournament with many talented players, but I gave my best and I’m proud of this achievement.
“I really thank the Ayida Foundation for giving us this opportunity.
“This tournament has motivated me to train harder and aim higher in my tennis career,” she said.
In spite of the loss, Olaniyan’s impressive performance secured her the silver medal, reaffirming her place among the sport’s promising stars.
For the U-18 boys’ final, Onyekachi Ogunjiofor defeated Daniel Joseph 6-1, 6-1 to claim gold.
The U-12 boys’ final, Daniel Igbinovia defeated Vasa Mohammed 6-2, 6-0, to take gold, while Chisimdi Afammbonu beat Barakat Ganiyu 6-2, 6-2 U-12 girls.
Adesimibo Olaniyan overcame Glory Akpan 6-0, 6-0 in the U-14 girls’ category, while Goodluck Akinfunmiloye edged his opponent Okandeji Mohammed 6-3, 6-0 in the U-14 boys’.
Also, in the U-16 girls’ final, Tiffany Osho defeated Mariam Ogunbamwo 6-1, 6-2 to claim gold, while Yahaya Isa defeated Heman Afaramai 6-3, 4-6, 7-3 to claim gold in the U-16 boys’ final.
The final match of the tournament did not disappoint, as fans and spectators were left on the edge of their seats by the high level of skill and sportsmanship displayed by the young competitors.
The tournament, which has become a platform for identifying and nurturing young tennis talents in Nigeria, lived up to its reputation as the finalists battled it out for the coveted trophy.
The crowd was thrilled by the impressive serves, precise volleys and nail-biting rallies that characterised the match, showcasing the immense potential of the next generation of Nigerian tennis stars.
Speaking to NAN, Alero Ayida-Otobo, oldest daughter of the late Allison and Oluremi Ayida, said the foundation was established to honour her parents’ legacy.
“The foundation’s focus on tennis was inspired by my father’s lifelong passion for the sport. My father loved tennis, and we grew up watching him play.
“The foundation aims to identify and nurture young tennis talents, with the goal of producing global superstars,” she said.
‘The Ayida Foundation has been committed to hosting the Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament every two years, ensuring a long-term platform for young players to develop their skills.
“The next generation of the Ayida family has pledged to uphold the foundation’s vision and continue its work.
“We’re handing over the baton to them, and they’re excited to run with it,” Ayida-Otobo said, praising her grandchildren who are part of the next generation.
Laolu Akerele, grandson of the late Allison Ayida, described the Ayida Foundation Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament as a “special event” that honoured his grandfather’s memory while promoting youth development through sports.
“My grandfather was a great tennis player and loved giving back to the community.
“This tournament is a chance to honour him while supporting talented Nigerian students and tennis players.
“Over 250 children participated in the tournament, with over 300 attendees including visitors, families, and tennis clinic participants,” he said.
Akerele emphasised that the AOA Foundation’s values of love, service and excellence were evident throughout the event.
“Seeing many children and schools represented and having our family here, makes it a very special day.
“I know my grandfather would be very proud right now,” Akerele said.
The tournament featured several schools across Lagos and beyond, with trophies and medals presented to outstanding participants in different categories.
The tournament has significantly raised the standard of tennis among Nigerian youngsters. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
