Niger Delta Games Discovery, Etoro Bassey, Stages Comeback to Lift 2026 CBN Open Trophy.

AKINSINDE ADEOLA OYINDAMOLA

Eighteen-year-old Akwa Ibom tennis star Etoro Bassey has continued her impressive rise on the Nigerian tennis scene, rallying from a set down to defeat Success Ogunjobi 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 and claim the women’s singles title at the prestigious 2026 CBN Open Tennis Championship in Abuja.

The victory represents another major milestone in the young player’s career and further cements her status as one of Nigeria’s brightest emerging tennis talents.

Bassey’s latest success comes after a remarkable journey through the Niger Delta Games, where she first announced herself on the national stage by winning the women’s singles gold medal at the inaugural Niger Delta Games in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, in 2025.

A year later, at the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Edo State, she once again demonstrated her consistency and quality by reaching the women’s singles final. Although she narrowly missed out on retaining her crown, losing to Edo State’s Nenrot Suwa in the final, Bassey settled for a silver medal after another outstanding campaign.

Speaking during the 2026 Niger Delta Games in Benin City after defeating Lorelay Holzendorff to reach the final, Bassey had described the experience as “thrilling,” highlighting her determination and competitive spirit.

That resilience was on full display again at the CBN Open in Abuja, after dropping the opening set against Ogunjobi, the fifth seed responded emphatically, storming through the second set without conceding a single game before maintaining her composure in the decider to secure one of the biggest titles of her young career.

Speaking after lifting the trophy, an elated Bassey praised her opponent for pushing her to the limit.

“She’s a very good player. She gave me a tough time, especially because my backhand wasn’t working well at the beginning of the match. That made me stronger because I knew I had to accept the challenge and keep fighting.”

The Akwa Ibom star said the national title would motivate her to work even harder as she pursues her ambition of becoming a professional tennis player.

“I don’t settle for less. I want to keep winning and remain a champion. My dream is to become a professional tennis player, and I know I have to keep working hard.”

Bassey also dedicated the victory to her father and the coaches at Jeans Tennis Academy for their continued support and belief in her potential.

“I want to thank my dad for always supporting me and believing in me. I’m also grateful to my academy for everything they have done for my development.”

While she celebrated singles glory, Bassey narrowly missed out on completing a memorable double at the championship. In the women’s doubles final, Success Ogunjobi teamed up with top seed Khadijat Mohammed to defeat Bassey and Favour James 6-2, 6-7(2), 10-6.

The Managing Consultant/CEO of Dunamis Icon Limited, organisers of the Niger Delta Games, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, also congratulated Etoro Bassey on her CBN Open triumph, describing it as a testament to the impact of the Games in developing young talents.

“Etoro’s victory is a proud moment for the Niger Delta Games family. Her journey from winning gold at the inaugural Games in 2025, claiming silver in 2026, and now becoming a national champion shows the value of providing young athletes with opportunities to compete and grow.”

Ikpokpo added that Bassey’s success reflects the core objective of the Niger Delta Games.

“Stories like Etoro’s are exactly why the Niger Delta Games was created, to discover, nurture and showcase talents capable of excelling on bigger stages.

We are proud of her achievements and wish her even greater success in the future.”

The triumph at the CBN Open is another significant chapter in Bassey’s growing career. Having won gold at the 2025 Niger Delta Games, claimed silver at the 2026 edition in Edo State, and now captured a prestigious national title in Abuja, the Akwa Ibom athlete continues to prove that she is a player destined for bigger achievements on both the national and international stage.

For Nigerian tennis followers, Bassey’s progression from Niger Delta Games champion to CBN Open champion is a testament to the importance of grassroots and regional competitions in nurturing the country’s next generation of elite athletes.