Olympic Champion Nduka Odizo Meets Governor Kefas, Plans Tennis Academy in Taraba

Olympic Champion Nduka Odizo Meets Governor Kefas, Plans Tennis Academy in Taraba

The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, on Wednesday welcomed Olympic Gold Medalist and Houston-based tennis star Nduka Odizo during a courtesy visit to the TY Danjuma House in Jalingo.

Governor Kefas described the visit as an inspiring moment not just for his administration but for the youth of Taraba State. He said Odizo’s journey from Nigeria to global stardom proves that dreams can come true with determination and the right support.

“Sports have long been known to shape leaders, build character, unite communities, and boost the economy,” Kefas said. “Taraba is full of untapped potential. With the right vision and partnerships, we can position this state for international recognition.”

While applauding Odizo’s global success, the governor emphasised the importance of staying focused in the face of challenges. He noted that success stories like Odizo’s serve as powerful reminders to young people that no dream is too big when hard work meets opportunity.

Governor Kefas promised the full backing of his government for any sports-related initiative championed by Odizo. He stated that his administration is committed to youth development through sports, education, and entrepreneurship.

In return, Nduka Odizo expressed his deep appreciation for the warm reception he received from Governor Kefas and the people of Taraba State. He described the visit as emotional and fulfilling.

Odizo shared his life story—how he began his sports journey in Nigeria before moving to the United States, where he rose to become a professional tennis player and an Olympic Gold Medalist. His journey, he said, was filled with struggle, sacrifice, and ultimately, success.

The tennis star revealed that he and 60 other Nigerian tennis players living abroad have come together to invest in Taraba. According to him, they plan to establish a world-class tennis academy in the state and also organise professional tournaments.

“Our goal is to create opportunities for young talents in Taraba to compete on the world stage,” Odizo stated. “We want to use our experience and resources to inspire the next generation of champions.”

He noted that Taraba’s calm environment, natural beauty, and youth population make it an ideal place for the project. He also stressed the importance of giving back to the country that raised him.

Odizo further urged Nigerian authorities at both the state and federal levels to look into the welfare of retired athletes. He called for the establishment of a functional pension scheme that will support sportsmen and women after their careers end.

“Many athletes who gave their best to the country are left with nothing when their careers are over,” he said. “A pension scheme will help protect their dignity and motivate young athletes to serve their country with pride.”

Governor Kefas agreed with the suggestion and noted that the welfare of sports veterans should not be ignored. He assured Odizo that discussions will begin with stakeholders on how to design sustainable support systems for athletes.

Both men expressed hope that the partnership between Odizo and the state government will mark the beginning of a new chapter for sports development in Taraba. Governor Kefas also invited other professionals in the diaspora to consider investing in the state’s untapped sectors, especially sports, agriculture, tourism, and technology.

The meeting ended with a symbolic exchange of gifts and photographs, while local sports enthusiasts, state officials, and members of the press witnessed what many described as a “historic encounter between leadership and legacy.”