Sports
VEMP Tennis: Adeleye Seals Men’s Singles Victory in Style
Joel Ajayi
Daniel Adeleye emerged champion of the men’s singles at the 2024 VEMP National Open Tennis Championship after defeating Lucky Danjuma 7-6, 6-2 in Saturday’s final at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The tournament, which kicked off on July 4, concluded on July 12 with Adeleye displaying consistency and dominance throughout. After edging a tight first set 7-6, he took full control in the second, sealing the match 6-2.
Adeleye’s journey to the title included a hard-fought 2-6, 7-5, 6-1 semifinal win over Canice Abua, a convincing 6-2, 6-1 quarterfinal victory against Mubarak Ganiyu, and earlier wins over Basit Ajao (6-1, 6-4) and Joseph Jimoh (6-3, 6-3).
Runner-up Lucky Danjuma had a strong campaign as well, defeating Uche Oparaji 7-6(5), 6-2 in the semifinals, Mevi Irimiya (6-2, 2-1, retired) in the quarters, and overcoming Paul Egena 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 in the round of 16.
Speaking after his win, Adeleye expressed gratitude and humility, stating, “This victory isn’t about the money—it’s about proving myself. When you work hard and stay focused, the rewards will follow.” He also thanked NTF President Ifedayo Akindoju for organizing the tournament and praised Danjuma for his sportsmanship and encouragement.
In the women’s singles final, Nigeria’s top-ranked female player, 15-year-old Khadijat Mohammed, showed remarkable resilience to defeat Etoro Bassey 1-6, 6-1, 6-2.
Mohammed overcame a shaky start, admitting she struggled with her rhythm in the first set. “I rushed my game early on, but I had to adjust and slow things down. That change made the difference,” she said.
Her path to the title included a 6-0, 6-3 semifinal win over Mary Udofa and a 6-4, 6-3 quarterfinal victory over Success Ogunjobi. Earlier, she had beaten Jesutoyosi Adeusi (6-2, 6-3) and Loveth Ogah (6-2, 6-2).
Reflecting on her long rivalry with Bassey, Mohammed said their encounters always feel like reunions. “We’ve played each other since our junior days, and she’s improving every time,” she noted, adding her ambition to compete internationally and elevate her career.
The VEMP National Open Tennis Championship, organized by the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) and sponsored by NTF President Ifedayo Akindoju, featured 192 players across men’s and women’s singles and doubles categories.
The tournament showcased top-level tennis and highlighted the growing talent pool in Nigerian tennis.
Sports
AACT 2026: 31 Days to Africa’s Big Sporting Gathering in Abuja
Joel Ajayi
The countdown to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) has officially entered the final month, with just 31 days to go before Africa’s leading women’s team golf championship tees off at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja.
In a statement signed by the AACT 2026Director of Communication Kayode Adeniyi on Friday in Abuja.
Under the theme “Africa Is Coming to Abuja,” the countdown campaign will spotlight the championship, the participating nations, the players, the host venue and the growing development of women’s golf across the continent.
The 2026 AACT, scheduled for November 2–7, will bring together women’s golfing talent from across Africa for six days of continental competition in Nigeria’s capital.
As preparations continue at the IBB International Golf & Country Club, attention is increasingly turning to Abuja, where the championship will provide a platform for African golfers to compete while also showcasing Nigeria’s hospitality and the country’s growing profile as a destination for major sporting events.
The countdown will feature daily stories, interviews, player and country profiles, tournament facts, behind-the-scenes updates and features on the host venue as the championship draws closer.
The campaign will also highlight the role of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the Local Organising Committee and other stakeholders in preparing for the continental championship.
With just 31 days remaining, anticipation is building across the African golfing community as Abuja prepares to welcome the continent’s leading women golfers.
Africa is coming to Abuja.
.
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