Jean Claude Talon, President of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT), led the tributes for Engr. Ifedayo Akindoju, the late NTF President, during a night of tributes in Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital.
The event which was held inside the tennis section of the Package B at the National Stadium, Abuja, was organized by friends and associates of the late tennis federation president.
Talon expressed the deep sorrow of the continental tennis community, describing Akindoju as a humble, committed, and passionate leader whose influence transcended Nigeria.
“Engr. 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.
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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.
While reflecting on the late president’s tireless efforts to grow the game across all levels, Ochei noted that his tenure brought renewed energy to grassroots programs, talent development, and Nigeria’s re-emergence on the international tennis scene.
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He said: “Engr. Akindoju lived for the game; he believed in people and worked tirelessly to elevate Nigerian tennis to global relevance. 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 Engr. 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.”
Former NTF President and ex-Minister of Sports, Engr. 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.
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According to him: “Dayo was not just about tennis; he was about people. 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 II – a milestone he described as “a barometer of excellence”.
Speaking on behalf of the late president’s family, Paul Akindoju thanked the NTF, tennis community, and well-wishers for their support and solidarity.
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“My family is deeply grateful for your love and presence.
“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,” he stated.
The event ended with the NTF naming the Centre Court pavilions after the late Akindoju in memorial of his contributions to the growth and development of tennis in the country.
The climax of the event was a significant candle light tribute in honour of the Late Akindoju’s legacies.
Obinna Ofodum, who spoke on behalf of the Organizing Committee, appreciated the guests who turned up in their numbers to the high profile event, as well as others that joined, for their solidarity. He equally paid a glowing tribute to the Late Akindoju whom he referred to as a great and good man.