Abuja: Ifedayo Akindoju, the President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), has commended three Nigerian tennis referees following their certification by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) as White Badge Referees.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the trio of Joseph Edili, Bitrus Danjuma, and Folashade Ogunshola achieved this milestone on April 27 in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire. Akindoju praised the referees during a reception and dinner organized by the NTF in their honor on Monday night in Abuja. He highlighted the significance of their achievement, noting the rigorous training and evaluation they underwent to earn the White Badge certification, which now allows them to officiate at higher-level tournaments, including ITF World Tennis Tour events.
The NTF President emphasized the positive impact this certification would have on Nigerian tennis, enhancing officiating standards and promoting tennis development in the country. He added that the achievement would inspire young officials to pursue similar certifications, further advancing the sport in Nigeria.
Efe Okwagbe, Chairman of the Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association (NTUA), expressed gratitude to the NTF President for recognizing the referees' achievements. He urged the President to consider extending the working days of referees during tournaments and engaging the newly certified ITF referees for upcoming international events in Nigeria. Okwagbe also acknowledged Edmund Ajoge, Managing Director of Tombim Services Ltd., for his continued support and contributions to tennis development in the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that earning an ITF White Badge is a significant milestone for tennis officials, granting international recognition and qualifying them to officiate at global tournaments under the International Tennis Federation.