In response to the distressing circumstances surrounding former Nigerian tennis player Tanya Okpala, the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has assured that the ministry will take decisive action to address the situation.
The minister expressed his concern in an official statement, acknowledging the unsettling nature of the viral video featuring Tanya Okpala.
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In the video, Okpala appeared disheveled with a bandaged leg, engaging in conversation with a stranger who offered to buy her a drink.
Senator Enoh, in his statement, revealed that he spoke with Tanya’s father, who provided insights into her current condition.
He confirmed that the Nigerian Tennis Federation had previously funded Tanya’s rehabilitation years ago when her condition first became public knowledge. Unfortunately, the former tennis star experienced a relapse shortly thereafter.
Tanya Okpala, once a prominent tennis player, had a distinguished career representing Nigeria and the African continent. She achieved notable success in various tennis tournaments, earning laurels and even attaining the top rank as a tennis junior champion.
Senator Enoh expressed gratitude to Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State and his team for their prompt intervention in Tanya Okpala’s case, commending their swift action. The minister emphasized the ministry’s commitment to its six-point agenda, WAIFAR, particularly the “W” which stands for activating and enabling a welfare system catering to both serving and retired athletes.
“As a ministry, we will take action in this regard, as every athlete who has brought glory to our nation deserves appropriate welfare,” declared the Sports Minister, underscoring the commitment to ensuring the well-being of athletes who have contributed significantly to the nation’s sporting success.
