Sports

International Tennis Stars from France, UK, India, Hong Kong, and More Set to Compete in Nigeria for ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors

Published

2 years ago

February 17, 2025

Joel Ajayi

The Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) is gearing up to launch its 2025 season with the prestigious hosting of the ITF World Junior Circuit J30 Tennis Tournament in Abuja. This highly anticipated event is set to attract young tennis talents from across the globe, providing Nigerian junior athletes with a unique opportunity to compete against some of the best players in their age group. The tournament, which is one of the most significant events on the NTF calendar, is not only a platform for showcasing talent but also a critical measure of the growth and development of Nigeria’s budding tennis stars.

The competition will feature participants from a diverse array of countries, including France, the United Kingdom, India, Hong Kong, China, Egypt, Lebanon, and Morocco. These young athletes have already begun arriving in Nigeria, ready to take part in the two-week-long tournament, which will be held in two distinct phases. The first phase, Week 1, is scheduled to run from February 17 to February 22, 2025, while the second phase, Week 2, will take place from February 24 to March 2, 2025. This dual-phase structure ensures that players have ample opportunity to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Shammah Makpa, the Secretary-General of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, expressed his excitement and confidence in the federation’s readiness to host the international event. “We are fully prepared to welcome the world to Nigeria,” Makpa stated. “Our facilities are in tip-top shape, and we are eager to get started. This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about fostering international camaraderie and showcasing Nigeria’s ability to host world-class sporting events.”

Makpa also extended a warm welcome to the visiting athletes, encouraging them to embrace the unique hospitality and culture of Nigeria while giving their best on the court. “We urge all the players coming from different parts of the world to enjoy their time in Nigeria. Experience our rich culture, savor our cuisine, and, most importantly, play the best tennis of your lives. This is a chance to make lasting memories both on and off the court.”

The ITF World Junior Circuit J30 Tournament is a crucial stepping stone for young tennis players aiming to climb the ranks in international tennis. For Nigerian athletes, it represents a rare opportunity to compete on home soil against some of the most promising junior players from around the world. The tournament is expected to not only elevate the standard of tennis in Nigeria but also inspire the next generation of Nigerian tennis stars to aim for global recognition.

As the countdown to the tournament begins, excitement is building among players, coaches, and tennis enthusiasts alike. The event promises to be a celebration of talent, sportsmanship, and international unity, with Nigeria taking center stage as a proud host nation. With top-notch facilities, a warm reception, and a competitive atmosphere, the ITF World Junior Circuit J30 Tournament in Abuja is set to be a landmark event in the 2025 tennis calendar.

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

10 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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