Ochei Celebrates Historic Tennis Double As Nigeria’s Men, Women Earn Global Promotions

President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, has hailed the historic achievements of Nigeria’s men’s and women’s national tennis teams after both secured promotion in their respective international competitions, describing 2026 as a landmark year for the sport.

Nigeria’s women’s team recently earned promotion to the Billie Jean King Cup Europe/Africa Zone Group II, just months after the men’s team gained promotion to the Davis Cup World Group II. The twin successes mark the first time both national teams have achieved promotion in the same year.

Reacting to the women’s latest feat, Ochei congratulated the players and coaching crew, praising their resilience, discipline and determination throughout the campaign.

“I heartily congratulate our exceptional women athletes and the technical crew on this remarkable achievement,” Ochei said.

“Your resilience, discipline, teamwork and determination have once again made Nigeria proud. You have demonstrated that with hard work and belief, Nigerian tennis can compete and succeed on the global stage.”

The NTF President described the double promotion as a clear indication of the Federation’s renewed direction and long-term commitment to rebuilding Nigerian tennis.

“The promotion of both our Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup teams in the same year is unprecedented for Nigerian tennis,” he said.

“It reflects the progress we are making and strengthens our resolve to continue investing in player development and grassroots tennis.”

Ochei also expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its continued support, singling out Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade for creating an enabling environment for Nigerian athletes to thrive.

“I sincerely thank the National Sports Commission for believing in our vision and providing the support that has made these achievements possible. The leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade has created an enabling environment for our athletes to excel,” he stated.

The NTF boss further commended members of the Federation’s board for their unity and dedication in driving reforms aimed at restoring Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s leading tennis nations.

“I equally appreciate my colleagues on the NTF Board for their commitment, sacrifice and collective efforts. These achievements belong to every stakeholder who has worked tirelessly to restore Nigeria’s place among the leading tennis nations in Africa,” he added.

Ochei reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to building on the recent successes by strengthening grassroots development, nurturing emerging talents and improving Nigeria’s competitiveness on the international stage.

“This is not the destination but another milestone. Together, we will continue to build champions, inspire the next generation and fly the Nigerian flag proudly on the world stage,” he said.

The back-to-back promotions of Nigeria’s Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup teams represent one of the country’s most successful periods in international tennis and underline the growing momentum behind efforts to revive the sport through sustained investment in talent development and improved administration.