Akwa Ibom Sports Commissioner hosts young tennis high-flyers, after national success

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By Maxwell Kumoye 
  
 

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, has praised four of the state's emerging tennis talents following their impressive performances at a series of national championships.

The quartet of Etoro Bassey, Wisdom Effiong, Favour James and God's Miracle Essien were received by the commissioner on Tuesday after returning with medals from the ITF J30 Abuja, DAVNOTCH National Open Tennis Championship and the CBN National Open Tennis Championship.

Commending the athletes, Elder Bassey said their exploits had further elevated Akwa Ibom's profile on the national tennis scene. 

He noted that competing against players from countries including the United States, India, China and Canada in the ITF event, while returning home with medals, underscored their talent and determination.

He also expressed appreciation to Governor Pastor Umo Eno for prioritising sports development in the state, saying the government's support had created an enabling environment for athletes to thrive.

According to the commissioner, the achievements of the young players reflect what he described as the state's "harvest of sports successes," adding that the ministry would continue to support and encourage athletes to excel.

Etoro Bassey emerged as the standout performer during the competitions. She won the Ladies' Singles title at the CBN National Open Tennis Championship, while she and Favour James finished as runners-up in the Ladies' Doubles event.

The teenage sensation continued her remarkable form at the DAVNOTCH National Open Tennis Championship, where she defeated several top-ranked players, including Nigeria's current women's No. 1, to secure the title. 

The victory earned her a place in Nigeria's national camp ahead of the forthcoming Billie Jean King Cup in Botswana.

Etoro also etched her name into the history books by becoming the first female player from Akwa Ibom State to win the CBN National Open Tennis Championship title in the competition's 47-year history.

The visit concluded with special prayers for the athletes during the ministry's weekly chapel service, as officials wished them continued success in their careers.
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