In a country where football commands the spotlight, tennis is quietly but powerfully staking its claim in Nigeria’s evolving sports culture. Leading this resurgence is the MSL Tennis Club, an emerging force in Abakaliki that’s transforming tennis from a fringe pastime into a mainstream fitness movement.
Over the weekend, the club hosted a lively tournament that not only drew crowds but also showcased how tennis is fast becoming more than a game because of it's becoming a lifestyle.
“People who didn’t value tennis before are now embracing it,” said Uchenna Uguru, Chairman of MSL Tennis Club.
“They see the strength it builds, the fitness it gives, and the joy it brings.”
Since its inception under the MSL Foundation, the club has evolved from a modest group of 11 players into a thriving community of over 40 active members.
From early risers squeezing in fitness before work, to retirees seeking a healthier lifestyle, MSL welcomes players of all ages and skill levels.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or a beginner.
“If you can play, great—register and join. If you can’t, register anyway. We’ll teach you and bring you into the fold," Uguru said.
With both senior and junior divisions, MSL Tennis Club is building a pipeline of talent while also offering a safe, inclusive space for everyday citizens to stay fit and engaged.
Every December, the club hosts a highly anticipated tournament, offering cash prizes and rewards that add excitement to the local sporting calendar.
But beyond the competition, the tournament has become a celebration of community, teamwork, and personal growth.
“We play to win, of course,” Uguru said with a smile. “But more importantly, we play to live better.”
While football remains Nigeria’s most popular sport, voices within MSL are making a compelling case for tennis as the smarter, more sustainable option especially for those seeking longevity in fitness.
“Football is intense, rough, and not always ideal for older players,” said Comrade Linus Nkwede, a passionate member of the club.
“Tennis, on the other hand, is something you can play at any age. It’s low-impact, but still burns calories, improves coordination, and keeps your heart strong," Nkwede added.
He also pointed to global trends, noting that tennis is a staple in hotels, schools, and residential estates across the United States and Europe.
MSL, he said, is on a mission to replicate that accessibility in Nigeria.
What sets MSL apart is its unique fusion of fitness, recreation, and entertainment.
Aside from tennis, the club also promotes other sporting activities like snooker and table tennis, fostering an all-around culture of healthy living.
“It’s more than just sport. It’s about camaraderie, mental wellness, and enjoying life while staying fit," Uguru said.
With the buzz growing and more locals showing interest, MSL Tennis Club is well on its way to becoming a beacon of modern sport development in Ebonyi State and a model for similar initiatives nationwide.
Tennis may not yet rival football in fanfare, but thanks to clubs like MSL, it's quickly becoming a compelling alternative—one that blends athleticism with accessibility, and competition with community spirit.
As the sun sets on Abakaliki’s rising tennis courts, one thing is certain: the future of Nigerian sport is expanding, and tennis is taking its place in the spotlight.
