ANAMBRA DEPUTY GOV FLAGS OFF MAIDEN GOVERNOR’S CUP TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Anambra State has launched its first Governor’s Cup Lawn Tennis Tournament, bringing together 16 clubs to compete for a ₦1 million top prize.

Deputy Governor Onyekachukwu Ibezim declared the competition open on Wednesday at the Anambra Country Club tennis courts in Awka.

Organised by the club in partnership with Audi Company Limited, the tournament aims to discover emerging players, encourage youth participation and strengthen sports development in the state.

Ibezim praised the organisers and sponsors, saying the initiative supported the government’s efforts to attract private investment into sports.

He described the competition as an opportunity to identify talent, promote healthy living and demonstrate the benefits of collaboration between government and businesses.

The deputy governor also urged the organisers to sustain the tournament, saying it aligned with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for sports and physical development.

Anambra Country Club President Ejiamatu Enekwechi confirmed that 16 teams from across the state were participating. He said the event formed part of the club’s efforts to nurture young talent and encourage greater involvement in tennis.

Announcing the prizes, Audi Company Limited Managing Director Clems Ifezue said the winners would receive ₦1 million, while the runners-up would take home ₦500,000. Each of the other participating teams would receive ₦100,000.

Ifezue said the sponsorship reflected the company’s commitment to giving back to society.

The state Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Patrick Aghamba, welcomed the initiative, stressing that government needed support from businesses, clubs, sports associations and communities to create more opportunities for athletes.