NOC President Mourns Akindoju, Nigeria Tennis Federation President
The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian sporting fraternity following the passing of Engr. Ifedayo Akindoju, the President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF).
Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, President of the NOC expressed his feelings in a condolence message made available to journalists on Friday.
The message which was signed by Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer of NOC said Akindoju’s death was a major blow to the nation’s sports community.
He noted that his influence extended across the continent, as he also served as the Treasurer of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT).
Gumel said his leadership quality was further demonstrated through his roles as a member of the Executive Board of the NOC, Chairman of the Committee for the Nigeria House Project for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and President of the Abuja Country Club.
“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,” he said.
Gumel said Akindoju’s tenure at the NTF was characterised by a strong focus on grassroots development, with the goal of producing the next generation of world-class Nigerian tennis players.
According to Gumel, Akindoju was personally involved in sponsoring events, including the annual VEMP Open tennis championship, and his company, Dayak Nigeria Limited which bankrolled tournaments to provide players and officials with international exposure.
“ He was a visionary leader whose commitment left an indelible mark,” he said.
Until his death, Engr. Akindoju was a highly respected member of the Nigeria Olympic Movement, a sports administrator par excellence, and a significant figure in both Nigerian and African tennis.
He served diligently as President of the NTF, a position where he was renowned for his dedication, passion, and vision for developing the sport.
Gumel said the NOC awaited further instructions from the late Akindoju famil
y to announce the funeral plan.
