The countdown to the 4th edition of the South-South Inter-Club Tennis Tournament has officially begun as a delegation of the South-South Tennis Association on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, in Benin City.
The visit was part of preparations for the eagerly anticipated tournament, scheduled to take place in Edo State from February 19 to 21, 2026, featuring top clubs from Edo/Delta, Rivers/Bayelsa, and Cross River/Akwa Ibom.
Leading the delegation, Hon. Morrison Ehiemua, who represented the Benin Club Tennis Captain and serves as Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, said the choice of Edo as host was a recognition of its growing reputation as a hub for sporting excellence.
“The first edition was held in Delta, followed by Rivers and Cross River, and now it’s Edo’s turn,” Ehiemua said. “We are proud to bring the tournament home and are here to seek the state’s support to ensure its success.”
Ehiemua revealed that 29 clubs are expected to participate in the three-day competition, which will serve as a showcase of tennis talent from across the South-South region. He noted that while the Benin Club and Benin Recreation Club would serve as the main venues, the number of matches expected necessitated additional facilities such as stadium courts.
“Our visit today is to request more venues and to seek assistance in ensuring media coverage, as this tournament will further showcase Edo’s capacity to host major sporting events,” he added.
Responding on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman, Hon. Baldwin Bazuaye, MON, Executive Director (Edo South) and former international footballer, commended the delegation for their vision and assured them of the Commission’s full cooperation.
“Under the leadership of our dynamic Chairman, approval for the use of additional tennis courts will be granted,” Bazuaye said. “We will also look into providing financial and media support after a thorough review of your proposal.”
The delegation included Engr. Musa Musty (Afemai Recreation Club), Engr. Emma Ujadughele (Esan Recreation Club), and Mr. Eddy Ohwofasa (Benin Recreation Club), who served as Secretary.
The South-South Inter-Club Tennis Tournament, which began four years ago, continues to foster unity and sportsmanship across the region while promoting grassroots tennis development. Edo’s hosting of the fourth edition is expected to further strengthen its position as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting states.
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