It was a cool evening of showers of encomiums on the life and times of late Engr. Dayo Akindoju, immediate past President of Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), who passed on recently.
Blueprint.ng reports that the solemn event which held inside the Tennis court, Package B of Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, was attended by family members, Tennis greats, investors, referees, players, journalists among others.
The outpouring of tributes turned moment of deep reflections regarding the person of late sage Akindoju, described mainly as a true nationalist who touched the lives of many.
Amidst various renditions in words and songs, Paul, the son of late Akindoju affirmed, “The presence of everyone here, the prayers, and the solidarity have brought my family great comfort.
“My father will be smiling down on us today. Tennis was one of his greatest passions, and this tribute night means the world to us. Our greatest comfort is the quality of life our dear father lived while on earth.”
From the numerous business associates, Tennis, Golf and others Sports Stakeholders across Nigeria and beyond came messages of comfort to the late Tennis chief’s family, and friends.
One of them and President of the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT), Mr. Jean-Claude Talon, described Akindoju as a visionary leader and a man of peace, adding, “It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of our beloved brother, friend, and colleague. Engr. Akindoju was not only a visionary leader but also a passionate advocate for the growth of tennis in Nigeria and across Africa.”
He added that Akindoju’s humility, integrity, and commitment left an indelible mark on African tennis.
“His loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him. May the Almighty God grant him eternal peace and welcome his soul into everlasting paradise,” he prayed.
The newly elected NTF President, Mr. Victor Ochei, said the late Akindoju’s death was a painful loss to the tennis community.
“It’s a sad loss, but you can’t question God. Dayo achieved what many people who live longer wouldn’t achieve. He laid the foundation for Nigerian tennis, and I promise to build on that structure so the game reaches its highest potential,” Ochei stated.
Former NTF President, Mr. Sani Ndanusa, expressed deep shock over Akindoju’s passing, noting that his eight-year tenure stood out for its remarkable impact.
“His leadership brought Nigeria back to the World Group of the Davis Cup after a decade. That achievement alone defines his legacy,” Ndanusa said.
He emphasised that Akindoju’s life was a lesson in passion and commitment to sports development.
Late Akindoju’s legacies sparkled on the night, with the lightening of white candles by all in attendance, signifying his gentle, soft-spoken, peaceful and unifying attributes that radiate wide even at his eternal demise.
