Lagos: Mofifuoluwa Atilola emerged victorious over Adesewa Olaniyan in the U-18 girls’ final at the second Ayida Foundation’s Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament, claiming the gold medal.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the spirited competition took place at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, showcasing the talent and determination of young athletes.
Atilola, only 12 years old, dominated the final match with a 6-1, 6-0 victory, solidifying her position as a formidable contestant in this year’s tournament. Her triumph was a testament to her skill and dedication in the sport. After the match, Atilola expressed her joy and appreciation for the opportunity provided by the Ayida Foundation, emphasizing how the tournament motivated her to pursue greater heights in tennis.
Despite Olaniyan’s loss, her performance earned her the silver medal, confirming her status as a promising player in the sport. In the U-18 boys’ category, Onyekachi Ogunjiofor claimed gold by defeating Daniel Joseph with a score of 6-1, 6-1.
The tournament also saw Daniel Igbinovia overpower Vasa Mohammed 6-2, 6-0 in the U-12 boys’ final, while Chisimdi Afammbonu triumphed over Barakat Ganiyu 6-2, 6-2 in the U-12 girls’ category. In the U-14 matches, Adesimibo Olaniyan and Goodluck Akinfunmiloye secured gold in their respective girls’ and boys’ finals. Tiffany Osho and Yahaya Isa emerged victorious in the U-16 girls’ and boys’ finals, respectively.
The tournament has gained a reputation as a platform for discovering and nurturing young tennis talent in Nigeria. The high-caliber matches left fans and spectators impressed by the skill and sportsmanship displayed by the young competitors. The event was marked by thrilling serves, precise volleys, and intense rallies, highlighting the potential of the next generation of Nigerian tennis stars.
Alero Ayida-Otobo, the eldest daughter of the late Allison and Oluremi Ayida, explained that the foundation was established to honor her parents’ legacy, with a focus on tennis inspired by her father’s passion for the sport. The Ayida Foundation remains dedicated to hosting the Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament biennially, aiming to cultivate young tennis talents and produce global superstars.
Laolu Akerele, the grandson of the late Allison Ayida, described the event as a meaningful tribute to his grandfather’s memory and a platform for youth development through sports. Over 250 children participated, with more than 300 attendees including families and visitors. Akerele noted that the AOA Foundation’s values of love, service, and excellence were evident throughout the tournament.
The event featured participation from several schools across Lagos and beyond, with trophies and medals awarded to outstanding players. As the tournament continues to raise the standard of tennis among Nigerian youngsters, it remains a beacon of opportunity and development for aspiring tennis players.