National Sports Commission,Tennis Federation Mourn Akindoju

The National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Tennis Federation have paid tribute to Ifedayo Akindoju, President of the NTF, who passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025, in Abuja.

In a statement, the Nigeria Tennis Federation described his death as a huge loss to the sport.

The federation said Akindoju served Nigerian tennis with “unwavering passion, vision, and dedication” and noted that his leadership had left an “indelible mark on the growth and development of the sport in our nation”.

It added that his commitment to players, coaches, officials and the wider tennis family would forever be remembered. The NTF extended its condolences to his family, friends, and the entire tennis community in Nigeria and beyond.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, also expressed shock at the passing of the tennis administrator.

He described the death as a “monumental loss” to the Nigerian sports family and stressed that the void created would be felt for many years.

Olopade said he found it difficult to accept the news, given his recent encounter with Akindoju.

“I am still pinching myself not to believe that Engr. Akindoju is no more because of how full of life he was the last time he came to my office. This is a big loss to the tennis family and the country in general,” he said.

He further praised Akindoju’s commitment to the game. “When you see Engr. Akindoju, you see his selfless passion for Nigerian tennis and how he constantly thinks of how Nigeria can produce the next generation of tennis top players,” Olopade said.

The Director General added that the Commission would continue to stand by the bereaved family.

“At this critical time of grief, our hearts are with his family, and as a Commission we will be in constant touch with them for every form of support,” he said