The Adewale Isa Foundation (AIF) Junior Tennis Championship has successfully nurtured a significant number of tennis stars over the years, according to the event’s organisers. During a press briefing held at the Centre Court of the Tennis Section, National Stadium, Surulere, the organisers shared insights into the championship’s impact and announced the upcoming fifth edition.
Olayinka Adigun, a member of the AIF Board, expressed satisfaction with the caliber of players produced by the championship in previous editions. She revealed that the fifth edition of the tournament is set to commence on August 13, with participants from 18 states across Nigeria.
“The AIF championship began as a tribute to our father, Alhaji Adewale Isa, a tennis legend whose contributions to the sport are widely recognized,” Adigun stated. “He mentored many players and coaches who have since become prominent figures in tennis. We are proud to continue this tradition and witness the rapid growth of young talents.”
Adigun highlighted the success of past champions, such as Chukwudubem Amasiani, now ranked number one in West Africa for U-14 Juniors and eighth in Africa, and Khadijat Mohammed, a national tournament winner. She also mentioned Mubarak Ganiyu, a former top African junior player who has excelled in tennis development.
“We are thrilled to announce the 5th edition of the AIF Junior Tennis Championship, scheduled from August 13 to 17. Matches will take place at the National Stadium’s tennis section in Surulere, Lagos, starting at 9:00 a.m. daily,” she added.
Adigun further revealed that winners in the U-12 category, both male and female, will receive a U.S. training tour as part of the foundation’s commitment to grassroots tennis development. She recounted the success of Joel Michael, a previous U-12 champion, who benefited from a three-month training stint in the U.S.
Nurudeen Isa, another board member, commended the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) for its unwavering support of the cadet tournament. He acknowledged the logistical assistance provided by the NTF and its role in facilitating sponsorship for players like Joel Michael.
“We are committed to tracking the progress of these young players and helping them reach the pinnacle of their careers. Tennis requires substantial investment, but we are dedicated to ensuring the success of our tournament’s participants,” Isa stated.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ‘Most Valuable Player’ in both the male and female categories will also receive cash incentives.
