Nigeria’s tennis dreams received a major boost on Sunday as Michael Emmanuel and Adesuwa Osabuohien emerged champions of the 46th Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Open Tennis Championship, vowing to push the country toward global recognition in the sport.

 

The week-long tournament at the National Stadium Tennis Centre, Package B, Abuja, concluded with electrifying finals that captivated fans and showcased the rising talent in Nigerian tennis.

 

In the men’s singles final, Michael Emmanuel secured his first major career title with a hard-fought 2–1 victory (7-6, 3-6, 6-2) over unseeded contender Ikenna Okonkwo. An emotional Emmanuel described the win as a springboard for his professional ambitions.

 

“Actually, I wanted this really badly because it’s my first,” Emmanuel said, smiling broadly. “I’m really happy to have it. I want to do more, not just in national tournaments but also professionally.”

 

The women’s singles final was no less dramatic, as Adesuwa Osabuohien overcame a slow start and a rain delay to defeat Emmanuel Essien 3-6, 6-4, 6-1. The victory, her first in a Nigerian tournament, was especially meaningful.

 

“No matter the circumstances, if you keep training and believing in yourself, anything is possible,” Osabuohien said. “This is my first Nigerian tournament, and it’s been an amazing experience. We’re now preparing for the Billie Jean Cup — we aim to move up to Group 2.”

 

The closing ceremony saw the Central Bank of Nigeria reaffirm its decades-long commitment to tennis and youth development. Representing CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, Acting Director of Corporate Communications Hakama Sidi Ali praised the athletes and highlighted the broader impact of sports on national unity.

 

“For over four decades, the CBN has remained a proud sponsor and firm believer in the power of sports to shape lives, discover talent, and build unity,” Sidi Ali said. “We celebrate not just the champions but every athlete who competed and inspired us.”

 

She also credited the Nigerian Tennis Federation (NTF) and media partners for their role in sustaining the sport’s growth.

 

NTF President Engr. Ifedayo Akindoju thanked the CBN for its “unwavering support” over the years, stressing that tournaments like the CBN Open are crucial for nurturing local talent and building pathways to international success.

 

With the rackets packed away and trophies lifted high, the 46th edition of the CBN Senior Open left Nigerian tennis fans hopeful. Both champions and organizers voiced confidence that this momentum could spark a new era — one where Nigeria becomes a formidable presence on the global tennis stage.