The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Engr. Ifedayo Akindoju, the President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), describing his passing as a huge loss to the nation’s sporting community.
Until his death, Engr. Akindoju was a towering figure in Nigerian and African tennis. A respected sports administrator, he was widely celebrated for his passion, dedication, and vision for the growth of the game.
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At the continental level, he served as Treasurer of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT), while also playing pivotal roles locally as a member of the NOC Executive Board, Chairman of the Nigeria House Project Committee for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and President of the Abuja Country Club.
His tenure at the NTF was distinguished by a strong focus on grassroots tennis development, nurturing the next generation of talent while also personally supporting tournaments.
Through his company, Dayak Nigeria Limited, he bankrolled several events, including the annual VEMP Open Tennis Championship, ensuring Nigerian players gained international exposure.
In a statement signed by NOC Public Relations Officer Tony Nezianya, Engr. Gumel praised Akindoju’s leadership and lasting contributions:
“His death is a huge loss, not only to the tennis family he left behind but to the entire Olympic Movement and the sport of arm wrestling, which he was also closely associated with. I pray that the Almighty God forgives his transgressions here on earth and admits his soul into paradise, while granting his family and all who miss him the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
Tributes across Nigeria’s sporting circles have described Akindoju as a “visionary leader” who left an “indelible mark” on tennis development in the country.
Funeral arrangements will be announced after consultation with the late Akindoju’s family.
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