Sports development minister, Senator John Owan-Enoh, has declared that Nigeria is hosting the 2024 Davis Cup Africa Group III Qualification Rounds to win.
Enoh made this known while declaring the event open at the National Tennis Centre, Package B, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Tuesday.
He highlighted the significance of tennis in Nigeria, saying it is one of the nation’s strongest sports, with passionate support from its citizens.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s history of producing top tennis players, he emphasised the opportunity for promotion to Euro Africa Group II.
“I urge the athletes to seize this opportunity with both hands. I am rooting for Nigerian athletes to secure qualification to the next stage.
“The country is behind them and we are hosting to win,” he said.
The minister assured the six participating countries of a warm welcome and a successful tournament.
Earlier, Dayo Akindoju, president of Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), assured the participants of the country’s hospitality throughout the tournament.
Akindoju commended the minister for his dedication to being present at the opening ceremony, noting its significance for the sport.
Also, the former NTF president, Engr Sani Ndanusa, urged athletes to strive for the promotion spot and praised their performances thus far.
“I am highly impressed with what I have seen so far. I believe Nigeria can come out on top, but the players must work hard and not take anything for granted,” he said.
The 2024 Davis Cup Africa Group III Qualification Rounds which served off on Tuesday with six countries participating is expected to end on Saturday.
The participating countries include Zimbabwe, Namibia, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin Republic and host Nigeria.
Zimbabwe, being the number one-ranked nation, will take on Nigeria, the least ranked country of the six participating countries in the first day of the competition.
All six teams are competing for three promotional tickets to World Group II.
While two teams will be relegated to Africa Group IV, one group will remain in Group III after the round of matches.(NAN)
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