The Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), on Saturday, named its centre court pavilions after the late president, Ifedayo Akindoju, who passed on last month in Abuja after a brief illness.
The Federation, during the night of tributes in honour of the late NTF president, which was held at the Centre Court of the National Tennis Centre, Package B, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, said the naming was a symbolic gesture to immortalise his (Akindoju) legacy and lifelong dedication to tennis.
Speaking at the event attended by tennis administrators, players, and friends from within and across Africa, President of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT), Jean-Claude Talon, said Akindoju was a visionary leader and a man of peace, describing his sudden demise as a great loss to the continent.
“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of our beloved brother, friend, and colleague. Engineer Akindoju was not only a visionary leader but also a passionate advocate for the growth of tennis in Nigeria and across Africa.
“His loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him. May the Almighty God grant him eternal peace and welcome his soul into everlasting paradise,” he prayed,” the CAT President said.
A former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and newly elected NTF President, Victor Ochei, said the late Akindoju’s death was a painful loss to the tennis community.
“It’s a sad loss, but you can’t question God. Dayo achieved what many people who live longer wouldn’t achieve. He laid the foundation for Nigerian tennis, and I promise to build on that structure so that the game can reach its highest potential.”
Akindoju’s son, Paul, on behalf of the family, thanked Nigerians and the tennis community for their love and support during their trying times.
“The presence of everyone here, the prayers, and the solidarity have brought my family great comfort. My father will be smiling down on us today. Tennis was one of his greatest passions, and this tribute night means the world to us,” he said.
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