Young tennis players are competing for educational grants worth up to N150,000 and opportunities for United States collegiate scholarships at the second edition of the Tennista Foundation Junior Tennis Tournament.
The tournament began on Thursday at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, and is scheduled to end on Saturday.
Organised by the Tennista Foundation in partnership with the American Business Council Nigeria, the three-day competition features U-16 and a newly introduced U-12 category, with separate male and female divisions.
According to a statement from the Tennista Foundation on Thursday, winners in each category will receive an educational grant of N150,000, a racket valued at $260, tennis balls, tennis bags, school bags, and other sponsored prizes. Second-place finishers will get N100,000 along with similar prize packages, while other participants will also receive consolation rewards.
Foundation President, Michael Nwoseh, said the tournament, which debuted last year at Rowe Park, Yaba, has expanded in structure, sponsorship, and reach.
“Last year was good for the maiden edition. Now we are moving to a more central location and getting sponsors while also being on a more quality stage. I am very happy we have upped the standard of the tournament,” he said.
He added that the foundation is working to secure tennis scholarships in the United States for outstanding players.
“We are trying to forge partnerships with schools in the USA so we can get them tennis scholarships at collegiate level, and that is why we are working with the American Business Council to see how we can get their tennis and academic careers going there,” he said, adding, “We are eager to use tennis as a tool for empowerment and education.”
Nwoseh also noted that equal prize packages for male and female categories were introduced to encourage greater participation from girls.
The Captain of the Lagos Country Club tennis section, Tunde Benson, said the club is proud to host the event, noting its long-standing support for youth sports development, including international table tennis competitions.
The Strategic Project Lead of the American Business Council Nigeria, Joy Lawal, said the initiative aligns with the council’s goal of promoting inclusive economic development.
“We see this platform as an opportunity for the younger generation to build discipline, gain exposure and develop confidence, which will grow the next generation’s economic strength,” she said, adding that the council will continue to support the tournament.
Coach Patrick Oche said youth tournaments like this remain vital for discovering and nurturing talent.
“I have always seen so many talents in Nigeria but not enough platforms to grow them. These opportunities help these kids to explore, grow and thrive,” he said.
Defending champion David Edward, winner of the 2025 edition, described the tournament as one of the most important junior tennis competitions in the country.
“They allow a lot of players to come and showcase their talents. We have many opportunities to play against good players, which helps us get better,” he said.
The event is sponsored by the American Business Council, MunchIt, Minimie, and Indomie, among others.
