The second edition of the Renewed Hope and People First National Tennis Open, Calabar 2024, concluded in dramatic fashion at the Calabar Sports Club 1898, drawing a large crowd to witness thrilling tennis matches and celebrate budding talent.
The event, held on December 7, showcased the best of Nigerian tennis, with players from across the country competing for honors.
In a highly anticipated final, Nubari John and Rebecca Ekpenyong emerged victorious, defeating their opponents, Aliyah Precious and Timiprie Maxwell, to claim trophies, cash prizes, and gifts.
The tournament, an initiative to promote grassroots sports development, is designed to enhance tennis skills, foster sportsmanship, and provide exposure for young talents, particularly in Cross River State.
Spectators were treated to electrifying matches as competitors displayed skill, precision, and resilience on the hard court.
Meanwhile, Senator John Enoh, the Honourable Minister of State for Industry and host of the tournament, reiterated his dedication to supporting sports in Cross River State, despite transitioning from his previous role as Nigeria’s Minister of Sports.
“I will continue to give young Cross Riverians who show excellence and hard work the platform to excel,” Enoh said, adding that he plans to increase the tournament’s prize money and introduce a football talent hunt across the state in early 2025.
The Minister also praised the efforts of Cross River Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who incorporated the tournament into the annual Calabar Festival, and acknowledged the state’s Sports Commissioner, Hon. Agnes Atsu, for fostering sports development.
The tournament featured prominent Nigerian players, including female tennis stars Rebecca Ekpenyong (ranked No. 7), Timiprie Maxwell (No. 11), and Amarachi Odoh (No. 24), alongside emerging talents like Aliya Precious, a champion in the U-14 and U-16 categories, and Nubari John, a former U-16 champion.
To further develop tennis in the state, Senator Enoh donated training equipment and announced sponsorship for young players Charles Olom and Theresa Otu to participate in national tournaments.
The event concluded with the presentation of cash prizes, trophies, and gifts to winners. Ekpenyong Peter Effiong was recognized as the outstanding coach of the tournament, while Senator Enoh received an award honoring his continued support for tennis development.
The Renewed Hope and People First National Tennis Open has positioned itself as a vital platform for discovering and nurturing talent, promoting unity, and advancing the socioeconomic potential of sports in Nigeria.
