Joel Ajayi
President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, Esq., FNSE, has hailed Nigeria’s historic tennis double following the women’s national team’s promotion to the Billie Jean King Cup Europe/Africa Zone Group II, while also commending the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the NTF Board for their unwavering support in the sport’s remarkable resurgence.
The latest feat comes just months after Nigeria’s men’s team secured promotion to the Davis Cup World Group II, making 2026 one of the most successful years in the history of Nigerian tennis.
Reacting to the achievement, Ochei congratulated the players and coaching crew for their determination, resilience and outstanding performances throughout the competition.
“I heartily congratulate our exceptional women athletes and the technical crew on this remarkable achievement. You have once again demonstrated the resilience, discipline and fighting spirit that define Nigerian tennis. This promotion is not just a victory for the team but for the entire nation,” Ochei said.
He also expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, members of the NTF Board, sponsors and stakeholders whose continued support has helped reposition Nigerian tennis on the global stage.
“Our gratitude goes to the National Sports Commission for its unwavering support and commitment to sports development, as well as members of the NTF Board whose collective efforts continue to strengthen the federation. This achievement is the result of teamwork, vision and sustained investment in our athletes,” he added.
Nigeria’s women sealed their historic promotion with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over hosts Botswana in the Billie Jean King Cup Europe/Africa Zone Group III promotional play-off in Gaborone.
The Nigerians took an early lead when the in-form Success Ogunjobi defeated Botswana’s Chelsea Chakanyuka 6-2, 6-4 in the opening singles match before the team, comprising Etoro Bassey, Success Ogunjobi, Khadijat Mohammed and Oyinlomo Quadre, under the guidance of coach Rotimi Akinloye, secured the decisive victory to book their place in Group II.
The triumph completes a memorable year for Nigerian tennis after the men’s national team earlier gained promotion to the Davis Cup World Group II, marking the first time both the men’s and women’s teams have achieved promotion in the same calendar year.
The double success further underscores the steady progress of Nigerian tennis under the current leadership of the Nigeria Tennis Federation and reinforces the country’s growing status as one of Africa’s emerging forces in international tennis.
