Sports
Winners Emerge as Maiden JOE Tennis Tournament Ends in Grand Style
…Tourney to continually foster discovery of young talents
Joel Ajayi
The inaugural JOE Tennis Tournament reached a thrilling conclusion with worthy champions emerging in both junior and professional categories at the Calabar Sports Club on Monday evening.
Senator John Enoh, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, expressed his excitement and pride in witnessing the abundance of young talent showcased during the tournament.
He emphasized the tournament’s role as a nurturing ground for raw potential, affirming its commitment to fostering budding athletes.
“The tournament’s success in unearthing such incredible young talent is truly inspiring. We want to provide platforms like this to nurture and support these future stars.”
The grand finale marked the culmination of nine days filled with exhilarating tennis action in the heart of Cross River state’s capital. Among the highlights were the victories of remarkable players in various categories:
In the U16 category, Damilola Agunbiade demonstrated exceptional skill and emerged as the winner, with Covenant Con securing the first runner-up position.
Charles Olom Odok claimed victory in the pro cadre, showcasing prowess and determination, while Mfon Joseph Obot secured an impressive second place.
The Men’s singles category witnessed intense matches, with Effa Ojing emerging victorious by defeating Odey Igrinya to claim the top position. Alaga Joseph and David Alobi showcased their skill, securing spots as semi-finalists.
The Men’s Doubles event was no less electrifying, as Manyo Ogar and Ahmed Umar combined their power to strike gold. The duo of Effa Ojong and Agunbiade exhibited exceptional teamwork, securing the second spot in this fiercely contested event.
Senator Enoh added, “The commitment and skill displayed by these athletes throughout the tournament have been commendable. Their dedication to their sport is an inspiration to us all.”
The John Owan Enoh Foundation (JOE) extended its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, runners-up, and participants who showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
The success of this maiden edition reinforces the foundation’s commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting sports excellence in our communities.
Sports
No crisis in NAWIS ahead of AFN elections on Monday
Joel Ajayi
The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS), known for its orderliness since its establishment in 1990, continues to uphold its standards ahead of the upcoming Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) elections.
With members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, NAWIS has consistently operated without external interference.
Over the years, its members have been nominated to various boards of national sports federations after meeting established criteria, including the payment of annual dues.
The association has attracted a strong base of respected sportswomen who have served the country with distinction, both during and after their active careers.
In preparation for the AFN elections, zonal elections were conducted on June 2 and 3, producing representatives for the national exercise.
While NAWIS initially planned to hold its election in Zaria, Kaduna State, the association’s headquarters, it was later rescheduled for Abuja on Monday, June 9, following directives from higher authorities.
Importantly, NAWIS has a set of strict guidelines that govern its electoral process, particularly the requirement for timely payment of annual dues. Failure to meet this condition results in automatic disqualification.
This guideline was the basis for the disqualification of Maria Wophil, who has reportedly not paid her annual dues since 2017. Her attempt to hurriedly settle outstanding debts just before the election was deemed non-compliant with NAWIS regulations.
Who is Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju?
Commonwealth gold medallist Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju is one of the leading contenders for the NAWIS representative position in the AFN.
She made history as the first African woman to run the 400m in under 50 seconds and brought glory to Nigeria by winning a silver medal in the 4x400m relay at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.
Yusuf-Olukoju also claimed gold in the 400m at the 1991 All-Africa Games and silver in the 200m.
Based on nominations and her track record, Yusuf-Olukoju is considered the most qualified candidate. However, three other contenders have also shown interest, and the final decision will be made in the election slated for Monday, June 9, in Abuja.
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