Abuja: Habu Gumel, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), has described the death of Ifedayo Akindoju, the President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), as a major blow to the country's sports community. Gumel communicated this on Saturday in a statement issued on his behalf by Tony Nezianya, the Public Relations Officer of the NOC.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akindoju was a member of the Nigeria Olympic Movement, a sports administrator, and a significant figure in both Nigerian and African tennis until his death. He served as President of the NTF, a position where he was known for his dedication and vision for developing the sport. Gumel noted that Akindoju's influence extended across the continent, as he also served as the Treasurer of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT).
Gumel further stated that Akindoju's death is a significant loss to the tennis community and the entire Olympic Movement. He was also closely associated with the sport of arm wrestling. Gumel expressed his prayers for Akindoju, hoping for his soul's eternal peace and strength for his family to cope with this loss.
Akindoju's leadership was evident in 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 tenure at the NTF focused on grassroots development, aiming to nurture the next generation of Nigerian tennis players. He personally sponsored events like the VEMP Open Tennis Championship, and his company, Dayak Nigeria Limited, supported tournaments to provide international exposure for players and officials.
The NOC announced that the committee would wait for further directives from Akindoju's family regarding the funeral arrangements.