by Willy Okonji, Lagos~
The Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, came alive with top-level squash action as SIAO successfully hosted the second edition of the SIAO Closed, Club & PSA Squash Tournament, drawing players, officials and enthusiasts from across Nigeria.
Declaring the tournament open at the opening ceremony, Managing Partner of SIAO, Mr. Abiodun Ariyibi, described the event as more than a competition, calling it the building of a lasting sporting tradition.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the second edition of the SIAO Closed and Club Invitational Tournament. On behalf of SIAO, it is my honour to open what promises to be another exciting celebration of squash excellence,” Ariyibi said.
He commended the leadership of the Lagos Country Club, led by President Mr. Seyi Adewunmi, Vice President Engr. Olatunji Amosu, the Club Council, and the Squash Section under the able chairmanship of Mr. Sesan Asani, for their commitment to raising sporting standards.
“Their collective commitment gives us confidence that this tournament and future editions will continue to raise the profile of squash within the club and beyond,” he noted.
The two-week tournament, which culminated in a grand finale on Saturday, December 13, 2025, featured participation from over 13 squash-playing clubs and more than 80 male and female professional players from across the country. The event also formed part of a PSA world rating tournament, further elevating its prestige.
Reflecting on the inaugural 2023 edition, Ariyibi recalled that it attracted over 90 players from at least 16 clubs nationwide.
“The intensity of competition, the display of skill and sportsmanship showed us what is possible when passion for squash meets organisational dedication,” he said.
Thrilling Finals and Winners
The championship delivered high-quality contests across all categories.
In the Super Veteran final, Sanni Kabir of Yellowdot Club defeated Funmi Bankole of Lagos Country Club 3–0 (11/9, 11/9, 12/10).
The Veteran category saw Clement Efakpokire of Ikoyi Club overpower Femi Bankole of Yellowdot Club 3–0 (11/4, 11/5, 11/6).
One of the highlights of the tournament was the Club Men’s Invitational final, where Bunmi Apata of Lagos Country Club edged Clement Efakpokire of Ikoyi Club in a gripping five-set encounter, winning 3–2 (11/7, 9/11, 12/10, 7/11, 11/4).
In the professional categories, Rofiat Abdulazeez emerged champion in the PSA Ladies final, defeating Mostural Durosilorun 3–0 (11/5, 11/8, 11/3), while Gabriel Olufunmilayo dominated the PSA Men’s final with a 3–0 victory over Shuaib Giwa (11/2, 11/2, 11/6).
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Ariyibi reaffirmed SIAO’ commitment to the sport, drawing parallels between squash and the firm’s corporate values.
“At SIAO, we believe in excellence, structure, discipline and long-term value, the same principles that squash represents. That is why sponsoring this tournament was a natural fit for us,” he said.
He congratulated all winners and finalists, singling out Abdulazeez and Olufunmilayo for their impressive professional performances, and praising the club final as a defining moment of the tournament.
“The match between Bunmi Apata and Clement Efakpokire reflected the high standard, resilience and sportsmanship displayed throughout the competition,” Ariyibi added.
He expressed appreciation to the Lagos Country Club management, the Squash Section executives, the Nigeria Squash Federation, officials, players and supporters for contributing to what he described as a highly successful 2025 SIAO Closed, Club and PSA Squash Tournament.
“Together, we have delivered a tournament that will be remembered and built upon in the years ahead,” he concluded.
