By Tony Ezike
The President of Onitsha Country Club, Fegge, Anambra, Mr. Anietonwa Ajulufo, has revealed ongoing efforts to transform the club into a hub for grooming national and international tennis champions.
Speaking during a visit by members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra Chapter, on Sunday, Ajulufo announced plans to establish tennis and table tennis academies at the club.
During the facility tour, Ajulufo explained that the initiative is part of the club’s strategy to tackle the issue of out-of-school children and youths in Fegge and the greater Onitsha area by providing opportunities for talented individuals to pursue careers in sports.
“We are compiling a list of players and are currently searching for a coach. By January 2025, we hope to commence operations,” he stated.
Ajulufo highlighted that since assuming office as president in March 2023, the club has undergone significant remodeling and rehabilitation to meet international standards. He noted the renovation of the squash court and the upgrade of the indoor sports hall, which houses the gym, snooker, and table tennis facilities. The upgraded facilities were inaugurated by the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in July.
He added that four tennis courts currently under reconstruction are expected to be completed by December. Once finished, the club plans to engage with the Nigeria Tennis Federation and Nigeria Table Tennis Federation to host national competitions.
“Many people are unaware of this sports club’s existence, which is why I initiated massive infrastructure development when I assumed leadership,” Ajulufo said.
He further disclosed that the club has acquired a functional 28-seater Coaster air-conditioned bus for the first time in 20 years and has installed solar-powered lighting to reduce electricity costs.
“Most of the upgrades you see here were accomplished in the past year. While it has been challenging, I remain focused on achieving our vision. We aim to conclude all ongoing projects within the next four months,” he added.
Ajulufo clarified that the club currently has no formal partnership with Anambra State, except for the three days it hosted activities during the ongoing traders’ sports competition.
According to him, the club, alongside its members and partners, has invested between N80 million and N100 million in the past 18 months. However, over N100 million is still required to complete ongoing projects, which include a 400-seat pavilion and a mini football stadium for younger members.
In his remarks, Mr. Chimezie Anaso, Chairman of SWAN in Anambra, commended the leadership and members of Onitsha Country Club for their dedication to sports development. He expressed optimism that club members would soon dominate Nigeria’s tennis scene.
Anaso assured the club of SWAN’s support in promoting its activities through media coverage.
The SWAN delegation included Mr. Ikem Asika, Vice President of SWAN Southeast; Mr. Emmanuel Ndukuba, a former chapter chairman; and Mr. Marvelous Ezenwa, a state official.
Ajulufo concluded by reiterating his commitment to ensuring the club becomes a world-class facility. He called on the government and well-meaning individuals to support their efforts in raising a new generation of sports talents and making Onitsha Country Club a key player in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.
Photos:
