Lagos State has recorded another milestone in youth sports development with the successful hosting of a junior tennis championship aimed at discovering emerging talents.
Eko Hot News reports that business leader and philanthropist Bella Disu hosted the finale of the maiden Bella Disu Open U-14 Junior Invitational Tennis Championship at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan.
The tournament was organised to mark her 40th birthday and to promote grassroots sports development across the state.
It focused on identifying and nurturing young tennis talents through structured competition, scholarships, and equipment support.
The championship attracted promising young athletes from different parts of Lagos and beyond.
Organisers said the initiative is designed to provide early exposure for budding tennis players.
The event also created opportunities for talent discovery in a competitive but supportive environment.
Officials from the Lagos State Sports Commission attended the finale to support the development initiative.
The Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, praised the tournament as a valuable contribution to sports growth in the state.
He said programmes like the championship help young athletes discover and refine their talents within structured systems.
Fatodu noted that sustainable sports development depends on consistency, access, and expanded opportunities.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting private sector-led sports initiatives.
According to him, collaboration between government and private stakeholders is essential for long-term sports success.
He said the championship aligns with the state’s broader sports development agenda.
Fatodu highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving sports infrastructure and talent development pathways in Lagos.
He added that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains focused on youth empowerment through sports.
The initiative is also part of efforts to strengthen grassroots participation in competitive sports.
Officials said such tournaments help build discipline, confidence, and teamwork among young athletes.
The Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, provided a historic venue for the final matches.
Lagos Lawn Tennis Club continues to serve as a key hub for tennis development in the state.
Stakeholders commended the organisers for investing in youth-focused sports programmes.
The championship is expected to become an annual event to further support emerging tennis players.
