Ayida Foundation Launches 2nd Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament with Over 250 Young Players

Posted : 16 October 2025

The Ayida Foundation has kicked off the second edition of the Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club.

The Ayida Foundation has officially opened the second edition of the Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament, drawing more than 250 young players from schools across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria. The week-long championship, which began on October 15 at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, will run until October 19, featuring both primary and secondary school participants.

The initiative is part of the foundation’s broader vision to develop young talent, promote sportsmanship, and encourage active youth engagement through tennis. By providing a structured and competitive platform, the foundation hopes to nurture the next generation of tennis champions in Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Bawo Ayida, a member of the foundation and grandson of the late Allison and Oluremi Ayida, explained that the tournament aims to help children build character, discipline, and confidence through sports. “This competition gives kids the chance to learn, compete, and grow,” he said. “We had about 200 participants last year, and the increase this year shows that grassroots tennis is thriving.”

The tournament features U-12, U-14, U-16, and U-18 categories and has become an important avenue for discovering young talents who could represent Nigeria on both national and international stages. Ayida added that tennis plays a vital role in youth empowerment and mental well-being, helping young athletes stay focused and connected.

He further highlighted the collaborative effort behind the event’s success, describing it as “a tournament powered by family—fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters—all working together in the spirit of love, service, and excellence,” values that reflect his grandparents’ legacy.

Also speaking, Mr. Sunday Igbinovia, Coordinator of the Ayida Foundation Tennis Tournament, emphasized that the initiative seeks to make tennis accessible to all children, not just those from privileged backgrounds. “Unlike football, tennis isn’t easily played on the streets, so we’re bringing the game to schools to discover and develop new talents,” he said.

Igbinovia noted that this year’s edition has seen increased participation, upgraded prizes, and inclusion of schools outside Lagos, making the tournament more competitive and rewarding.

“This is about long-term growth — not just for the players, but for the future of Nigerian tennis,” he added.

He also stressed the broader impact of sports on society, saying, “Tennis can create jobs, promote discipline, and teach young people values like respect, focus, and hard work. That’s the legacy we’re building.”

The Ayida Foundation Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament continues to expand as one of Lagos State’s most impactful youth sports initiatives, inspiring a new generation of tennis players while strengthening community bonds through sports.

Ayida Foundation Launches 2nd Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament with Over 250 Young Players

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