Former Minister of Sports and Chairman of the defunct National Sports Commission, Engr. Sani Ndanusa, has paid glowing tribute to the late President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Engr. Ifedayo Akindoju, describing him as a visionary leader whose contributions transformed Nigerian tennis and elevated its status across Africa.

Akindoju, who passed away on October 2, 2025, after a brief illness, served as NTF President from 2017 until his death and was also the First Vice President of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT) between 2022 and 2025.

In a moving statement titled “A Tribute to a Visionary,” Ndanusa extolled Akindoju’s leadership, integrity, and lifelong dedication to tennis, noting that his legacy would endure through the structures and initiatives he established during his tenure.

 “Engr. Akindoju was more than a federation president—he was the architect of a tennis renaissance in Nigeria,” Ndanusa said. “His passion for the sport illuminated pathways for young athletes from grassroots beginnings to global prominence. His integrity was unwavering, and his commitment to excellence propelled the sport forward.”

The former minister highlighted Akindoju’s instrumental role in reviving Nigeria’s presence in international tennis, including the country’s return to the Davis Cup World Group III and the successful hosting of several major tournaments such as the Dayak Open, VEMP Open, DavNotch Open, and Abuja Open—many of which were sponsored through his company, Dayak Nigeria Limited.

Ndanusa, who also serves as Life Vice President of the Confederation of African Tennis, described Akindoju as a bridge-builder and reformer whose tenure as President of CAT Zone II strengthened regional unity and development within West African tennis.

“He was not merely an administrator but a patriot of rare breed—one who gave selflessly to the sport he loved,” Ndanusa remarked. “His leadership brought dignity and vision to Nigerian tennis, and his generosity ensured that opportunities existed for others to thrive.”

Reflecting on their personal and professional relationship, Ndanusa recalled their shared moments of collaboration and mutual respect in the administration of tennis and sports governance.

“He was a trusted ally whose intellect and discipline matched his compassion. Our partnership was built on shared ideals—transparency, excellence, and service. He often funded programmes from his personal resources, reflecting his deep love for tennis and Nigeria,” he noted.

Ndanusa described Akindoju’s eight-year leadership as transformative, emphasizing that his focus extended beyond short-term achievements to building sustainable structures for future generations of players and administrators.

“His legacy is not defined by the titles he held but by the impact he made,” he said. “He taught us that leadership is service and that progress is possible when driven by integrity and purpose.”

He extended condolences to the Akindoju family, the Nigerian tennis community, and the Confederation of African Tennis, praying for the repose of the late administrator’s soul.

> “Engr. Akindoju played his final set with grace and glory,” Ndanusa concluded. “May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may the courts of heaven welcome him with the standing ovation he so richly deserves.”

Akindoju’s death marks the end of an era for Nigerian tennis, but his vision and reforms remain as guiding lights for the sport’s continued development both locally and across the African continent.