Emmanuel, Osabuohien Emerge Champions At 46th Open Tennis Championship, Abuja

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso | Abuja, Nigeria – July 27, 2025

Michael Emmanuel and Adesuwa Osabuohien were crowned champions in the men’s and women’s singles categories respectively at the grand finale of the 46th Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Open Tennis Championship, held at the prestigious Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The tournament, one of Nigeria’s longest-running and most prominent tennis competitions, drew elite players from across the country, reaffirming its status as a vital platform for nurturing local talent and showcasing the strength of Nigerian tennis.

Emmanuel Clinches Men’s Title with Grit and Grace

In the men’s singles final, Michael Emmanuel delivered a resilient and tactical masterclass, defeating Ikenna Okonkwo in a thrilling three-set contest: 7-6, 3-6, 6-2. The encounter was a captivating display of power, finesse, and determination from both players, but it was Emmanuel who proved superior in the decisive moments.

Reflecting on his victory, Emmanuel expressed heartfelt emotion over his journey back from injury:

“I’m very excited. It was a tough one from the start,” he said. “I’ve been struggling, coming back from injuries—it was not easy for me. But I’m really proud of myself for rising back to this level. Competing with these top players again means a lot.”

When asked about the quality of competition, Emmanuel acknowledged the challenge posed by his opponent:

“You can’t underestimate Ikenna’s level. He just returned from competing at international ITF events—J30s, J100s—it was never going to be an easy match. I knew I had to prepare hard and bring my A-game.”

Osabuohien Battles Back to Secure Women’s Title

In the women’s singles final, Adesuwa Osabuohien staged a remarkable comeback to defeat a spirited Emmanuel Essien 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a rain-disrupted contest. After conceding the first set, Osabuohien rallied with confidence and composure to seize control of the match and secure the championship title.

Osabuohien’s road to the final was marked by consistent dominance. She opened her campaign with a 2-0 (RTD) victory over Khadijat Salami in the Round of 32, then dispatched Timipre Maxwell 6-2, 6-0 in the Round of 16. In the quarterfinals, she overpowered Mary Udofa 6-2, 6-1 and went on to edge Blessing Omotayo 6-1, 7-5 in a gripping semifinal clash.

Essien also enjoyed an impressive run, defeating Bajo Punriniman 4-2, 4-0, overcoming Blessing Otu 6-3, 6-3, and securing tight victories against Blessing Etoro (6-2, 7-5) and Aina Goodnews (6-4, 6-3) en route to the final.

Doubles Glory and Ceremony Highlights

In the men’s doubles event, the duo of Canice Abua and Michael Emmanuel triumphed convincingly over Thomas Otu and Abubakar Yusuf with a 6-4, 6-0 win. The women’s doubles crown went to the team of Goodnews Aina and Favour Moses, who edged Blessing Anuna and Rebecca Ekpeyong in a thrilling 7-5, 7-5 final.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Mr. Ifedayo Akindoju, commended the Central Bank of Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to the development of tennis in the country.

“I am particularly pleased to witness the return of this championship after a two-year hiatus,” Akindoju stated. “CBN has remained a steadfast pillar in the advancement of tennis in Nigeria. This tournament is not just a competition—it is a strategic platform that nurtures and propels our athletes to excel locally and internationally.”

A Tournament of Legacy and Impact

The 46th edition of the CBN Senior Open Tennis Championship once again underscored the tournament’s legacy as a cornerstone of Nigerian sports development. With its consistent focus on grassroots engagement, elite competition, and professional standards, the event continues to inspire and elevate a new generation of tennis stars.

The 2025 edition commenced on July 18 and concluded on Saturday, July 26, delivering a week-long celebration of talent, resilience, and excellence in Nigerian tennis.