Hosting of Davis Cup Gulps Nearly ₦100 Million, Says NTF President Dayo Akindoju

Hosting of Davis Cup Gulps Nearly ₦100 Million, Says NTF President Dayo Akindoju
Hosting of Davis Cup Gulps Nearly ₦100 Million, Says NTF President Dayo Akindoju


The Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) has disclosed that it spent nearly ₦100 million to host the prestigious Davis Cup, known as the World Cup of tennis. NTF President Dayo Akindoju revealed this at a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the tournament's kickoff.

"We have spent close to ₦100 million on finalizing facilities, accommodations, security, feeding athletes and officials, and other logistics," Akindoju stated. "Some of these funds came from the International Tennis Federation (ITF), our sponsors, and partners. We understand the importance of this tournament, which is why we made extra efforts to ensure Nigeria could host it successfully."

Akindoju emphasized the significance of this investment, noting that Nigeria has struggled in the lower ranks of African tennis for some time. "Last year, through the determination of our board, coaching staff, and players, we secured promotion to African Group III. Now, we aim to advance to Euro Africa Group II."

He went on to commend the Ministry of Sports Development for creating an enabling environment for the athletes to feel safe. Akindoju mentioned that the Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, would be gracing the opening ceremony and he has assured the federation of support to help cushion the costs of hosting the tournament.

During the week-long event, Nigeria will compete against Zimbabwe, Benin, Namibia, Ivory Coast, and Ghana for a World Group II ticket. Three teams have a chance to gain promotion, while two will be relegated, and one will remain in Group III.

The Nigerian team, led by Coach Benson Ishicheli, includes Daniel Adeleye, Christopher Bulus, Wilson Igbinovia, Michael Emmanuel, and Uche Oparaoji. They will be striving to secure one of the three promotion tickets from the group.

Write a Comment