Abua’s Masterclass, Bassey’s Comeback Headline CBN Tennis Open Finale

Nigeria’s top-ranked player, Canice Abua, and fifth seed Itoro Bassey emerged champions of the men’s and women’s singles events respectively at the 47th edition of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Open Tennis Championship, which concluded at the Package B Tennis Courts of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Abua underlined his status as the country’s leading male player with a commanding performance in the men’s final, brushing aside defending champion Emmanuel Michael 6-1, 6-2 to claim his maiden CBN Senior Open title.

The women’s final proved a more dramatic affair as Bassey staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Success Ogunjobi 3-6, 6-0, 6-3, securing one of the biggest titles of her career.

The finals attracted enthusiastic spectators, who were treated to high-quality tennis and thrilling contests as the championship reached its climax.

Speaking after their victories, both champions expressed gratitude to the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) for sustaining the competition and providing a platform for players to showcase their talents.

They described their triumphs as major milestones in their careers and pledged to continue working hard to elevate their performances on both the national and international stages.

CBN Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Development Through Sports

Speaking at the closing ceremony, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso reiterated the apex bank’s commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment, talent discovery and national unity.

Represented by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, Cardoso highlighted the CBN’s long-standing support for the tournament.

“For more than four decades, the CBN has stood as a proud sponsor and unwavering supporter of this championship,” he said.

“Our commitment stems from a deep belief in the transformative power of sports, particularly tennis, as a platform for discovering talent, shaping character and fostering national unity.

“Beyond the courts, the CBN remains passionate about the holistic development of Nigerian youth. We see sports not merely as entertainment but as a powerful tool for empowerment, engagement and national integration.”

The National Sports Commission (NSC), represented by the Director of Federations and Elite Athletes Development, Mrs Mbora Ikana, also praised the championship, describing it as one of Nigeria’s most enduring sporting events.

Ikana commended the CBN for its unwavering support, noting that the competition has continued to provide a valuable platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities and pursue excellence.

The championship once again reinforced its reputation as a breeding ground for future stars, while highlighting the importance of sustained investment in grassroots sports development across Nigeria.