In a compassionate response to a distressing video, Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State intervened in the plight of US-based former tennis star Tanya Okpala, discovered wandering the streets in Awka. Facing homelessness and mental illness, Okpala’s situation garnered attention from the governor, who swiftly ordered her rehabilitation, as reported by Premium Times.

The video capturing Okpala’s distressing situation brought to light not only her struggles but also revealed her bi-racial background, with a Belarusian mother and a father from Nkpologwu Community in Anambra State.

Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, John Owan-Enoh, echoed concern for Okpala’s well-being in a recent post, shedding light on the challenges faced by the former tennis champion. Owan-Enoh disclosed that the Nigerian Tennis Federation had previously funded Okpala’s rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive “welfare system” to support both current and retired athletes in Nigeria.

Expressing commitment, Minister Owan-Enoh stated, “As a ministry, we will take action in this regard as every athlete who has brought glory to our nation deserves appropriate welfare.” He commended Governor Soludo’s intervention in aiding Okpala.

Credit: Premium Times