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
Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Congratulates Oguntimehin On Election As Fct Swan Chairman
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Association (NVRA) has congratulated Tolu Oguntimehin on his election as Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter.
NVRA described his emergence as an opportunity to strengthen sports journalism and advance the welfare of members.
Oguntimehin emerged victorious at the FCT SWAN elective congress held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, defeating his challenger, Raphael Ekpang, by 88 votes to four.
In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of Nigeria Volleyball Reporters, Alhaji Ganiyu Oloyede described the election outcome as a testament to the confidence reposed in Oguntimehin by members of the association.
Oloyede expressed optimism that the new chairman would bring purposeful leadership, inclusiveness and renewed commitment to the development of sports journalism in the FCT.
He stressed that the responsibility of leading the association goes beyond occupying an office.
Oloyede noted that the new administration must prioritise members’ welfare, professional development, unity and the protection of their collective interests.
The NVR chairman also challenged the incoming leadership to create an enabling environment where sports journalists can thrive professionally, gain greater access to sporting events and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigerian sports.
He particularly welcomed Oguntimehin’s commitment to establishing a ₦200 million financial base for the association, describing the proposed initiative as an ambitious step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable SWAN FCT.
Oloyede further emphasised the importance of collaboration among sports journalists, sports federations, government institutions and other stakeholders, maintaining that stronger partnerships would create more opportunities for members and improve the quality of sports reporting.
He urged the new executive to embrace transparency, accountability and open communication while ensuring that every member feels represented in the administration.
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters reaffirmed its readiness to work with the new SWAN FCT leadership in promoting sports journalism, strengthening professional relationships and projecting Nigerian sports positively.
-
Featured7 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured7 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured7 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured7 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured5 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Featured7 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
-
Sports4 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News2 years agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
