The President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Mr Ifedayo Akindoju, has congratulated three Nigerian tennis referees following their successful certification as White Badge Referees by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
The trio, Joseph Edili, Bitrus Danjuma, and Folashade Ogunshola, earned their badges on 27 April in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Speaking at a reception and dinner hosted in their honour by the NTF on Monday evening in Abuja, Akindoju lauded their achievement, describing it as a significant milestone for both the federation and the country.
“I congratulate you all on successfully earning the ITF White Badge certification. The importance of this achievement cannot be overstated,” he said.
Akindoju highlighted the rigour of the process, which involved intensive training and assessment, adding that the new status now qualifies them to officiate at higher-level tournaments, including ITF World Tennis Tour events.
He emphasised that the referees’ accomplishment would positively impact Nigerian tennis by raising officiating standards, advancing the sport’s development, and inspiring emerging officials.
“The presence of certified referees will improve the quality of officiating in both domestic and international events in Nigeria,” he said. “It also enhances the country’s capacity to host global competitions.”
He reaffirmed the NTF’s commitment to supporting and encouraging officials to reach the highest levels of their careers.
Also speaking, Mr Efe Okwagbe, Chairman of the Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association (NTUA), expressed gratitude to the NTF President for recognising the referees’ achievements. He described the gesture as deeply appreciated by the association.
“I sincerely thank our president for always being present to celebrate with us,” he said. “Your commitment to the development of referees is not taken for granted.”
Okwagbe also appealed to the NTF to extend referees’ working days during tournaments and to consider deploying the newly certified officials at upcoming international events in the country.
“Referees often arrive before and stay after tournaments to complete essential ITF-related work,” he explained. “We kindly ask that their engagement be extended accordingly.”
He further proposed that the newly certified referees be given the opportunity to officiate at the upcoming J30 international event in June, in place of foreign officials.
Okwagbe also commended Mr Edmund Ajoge, Managing Director of Tombim Services Ltd. and a key patron of the NTUA, for his unwavering support for Nigerian tennis.
“Mr Ajoge’s dedication has helped elevate the standard of the sport and encouraged other sponsors to lend their support,” he said.
The ITF White Badge is a major career milestone, granting international recognition and eligibility to officiate global tournaments under the ITF.