Tennis Community Pays Tribute to Late NTF President, Ifedayo Akindoju

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

It was a solemn evening as the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), family members, friends, and tennis enthusiasts gathered at the Tennis Courts of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, to celebrate the life and legacy of late Ifedayo Akindoju, the immediate past President of the Federation.

The Night of Tributes was a moving testament to the enduring impact of a man whose leadership, humility, and dedication transformed Nigerian tennis. The atmosphere was deeply emotional yet dignified, as speakers from across the country and beyond paid tributes to Akindoju, fondly remembered as a visionary, mentor, and servant leader.

Dignitaries at the event included former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sani Ndanusa; President of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT), Jean Claude Talon; President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, Victor Ochei; President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, Jubril Saidu; and several representatives of sports associations, clubs, and corporate partners.

In his tribute, NTF President, Victor Ochei, described the late Akindoju as “a man of integrity and excellence who gave his all to the development of tennis in Nigeria.”

Ochei reflected on the late president’s tireless efforts to grow the game across all levels, noting that his tenure brought renewed energy to grassroots programs, talent development, and Nigeria’s re-emergence on the international tennis scene.

“Akindoju lived for the game; he believed in people and worked tirelessly to elevate Nigerian tennis to global relevance,” Ochei said. “His passing is a great loss, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”

Drawing from his own engineering background, Ochei likened Akindoju’s leadership to the foundation of a great structure:

“The likes of Ndanusa laid the foundation, and Dayo reinforced it. By God’s grace, I will continue the superstructure so that his dream for Nigerian tennis will stand tall for years to come.”

In his remarks, President of the Confederation of African Tennis, Jean Claude Talon, expressed the deep sorrow of the continental tennis community, describing Akindoju as a humble, committed, and passionate leader whose influence transcended Nigeria.

“Akindoju was a lover of the game and a friend to many across Africa,” Talon said. “He was deeply committed to growing tennis and supporting young players. His death is a great loss to African tennis, and he will be fondly remembered for his big heart and vision.”

Talon, who attended the event to represent the entire CAT Executive Committee, emphasized that Akindoju’s impact would continue to shape tennis development across the continent.

Former NTF President and ex-Minister of Sports, Sani Ndanusa, described Akindoju’s passing as “a painful and shocking loss” to the sports family, emphasizing that he was not only a leader in tennis but a unifying figure in Nigerian sports administration.

“Dayo was not just about tennis; he was about people,” Ndanusa said. “His passion, selflessness, and genuine love for humanity made him stand out. Even when facing personal health challenges, he remained committed to serving others. That was who he was.”

He credited Akindoju with reviving Nigeria’s presence in global tennis, particularly with the country’s return to the Davis Cup World Group — a milestone he described as “a barometer of excellence.”

Speaking on behalf of the family, his son, Paul Akindoju thanked the NTF, tennis community, and well-wishers for their support and solidarity.

“My family is deeply grateful for your love and presence,” he said. “Tennis was one of my father’s greatest passions, and seeing how much he was loved by the tennis family means a lot to us. Thank you for celebrating his life.”

The Night of Tributes concluded with prayers for the repose of Akindoju’s soul and comfort for his family. As candles flickered across the court where he once stood to promote the sport he loved, the message was clear — Ifedayo Akindoju may be gone, but his legacy will forever serve as a guiding light for Nigerian tennis.