By Victor Okoye

Ifedayo Akindoju, the President, Nigeria Tennis Federation, has felicitated with three Nigerian tennis referees, following their certification by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) as White Badge Referees.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the trio of Joseph Edili, Bitrus Danjuma, and Folashade Ogunshola achieved the feat on April 27 in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire

Akindoju gave the commendation during a reception/dinner organised by the NTF in their honour on Monday night in Abuja.

He commended the referees for making the federation and the country so proud, noting that what they had achieved was no mean feat.

“Let me use this opportunity to congratulate you all for returning successfully with the seal of approval from the ITF as the significance of your achievements can not be overemphasised.

“I know how tough the journey was to obtaining the White Badge certification. You underwent rigorous training and evaluation, showcasing your knowledge and skills in tennis officiating.

“This certification now enables you to officiate at higher-level tournaments, including ITF World Tennis Tour events,” he said.

The president stressed that their achievements would have a positive impact on Nigerian tennis, adding that it would enhance officiating standards, promote tennis development as well as inspire young officials in the country.

“The certification of Nigerian referees will improve the quality of officiating in local and international tournaments held in Nigeria.

“By having certified referees, Nigeria can attract more international tennis events, promoting the growth of tennis in the country.

“The achievement of these referees will motivate young officials in Nigeria to pursue certification, further developing the sport,” he said.

He said that the Federation was committed to promoting and encouraging more referees to pursue their goals and reach the pinnacle of their career.

He added that NTF’s recognition of the referees’ achievements demonstrates its commitment to promoting tennis development and excellence in Nigeria.

Efe Okwagbe, Chairman of the Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association (NTUA), thanked the NTF president for honouring the referees, adding that it was a gesture the association would not take for granted.

“I want to sincerely thank our president for always finding time to share in our joy and challenges.

“We are not taking it for granted, and we appreciate your dedication to the growth and development of our referees in the country,” he said.

He also appealed to the president to extend the working days of the referees during tournaments and also engage the services of the newly certified ITF referees for upcoming international tournaments in the country.

“Over the years, I have noticed that the days the referees work during tournaments are the same with the chair Umpires.

“I think there is a need to take it a step further because they usually come one or two days ahead of time and stay even beyond the closing date of the event, as they still need to do alot of work with the ITF.

“So, I am making a formal appeal to the NTF president that when we present a request for two additional days for the referees, it should be graciously granted.

“Secondly, over the years, we invite foreign referees to Nigeria, and we have a couple of events just around the corner.

“I suggest that if possible, we can use our newly certified ITF referees for the next J30 event coming up in June,” he said.

He also thanked Edmund Ajoge, the Managing Director of Tombim Services Ltd., and a renowned patron of NTUA for his continued support to the association and efforts at promoting tennis development in Nigeria.

He said that Ajoge’s efforts had not only elevated the standard of tennis in Nigeria but also inspired other sponsors to support the sport.

“His commitment to developing tennis in Nigeria is evident through his consistent support of tournaments, players, and umpires, making him a valuable Patron of NTUA,” he said.

NAN reports that earning a ITF White Badge is a major milestone for tennis officials, as it grants international recognition and qualifies them to officiate at global tournaments under the International Tennis Federation.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza