NTF eyes global tennis relevance

Nigeria is poised to face a defining moment in its long quest to regain relevance on the global tennis stage, as it squares off against Uzbekistan in the 2026 Davis Cup World Group II Playoffs in Lagos.

The historic Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895 will host the high-stakes tie on February 7 and 8, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) engagement.

The President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Victor Ochei, at the weekend, expressed optimism that both the team and the nation are ready for the challenge, describing the playoff as an opportunity for Nigeria to reclaim global attention in the sport.

“We are optimistic that Nigeria will not only host a successful Davis Cup playoff but will also overcome Uzbekistan and return the country to the global spotlight in tennis,” Ochei said.

The Nigerian squad – Adeleye Daniel, Emmanuel Michael, Bulus Christopher, Abua Canice, and Alafia Ayeni – will compete in singles and doubles matches in what he described as one of the country’s most significant Davis Cup fixtures in recent years.

He explained that Nigeria earned the playoff berth after finishing among the top teams at the African Group III tournament in Zimbabwe, alongside Namibia and Senegal – a performance that secured promotion and a ticket to the highly competitive World Group II Playoffs.

The ITF subsequently confirmed Nigeria’s hosting rights, handing the team a crucial home advantage, just as victory over Uzbekistan would push Nigeria deeper into World Group II, with a pathway to World Group I and potential qualification for the prestigious Davis Cup World Finals, he said.
Ochei commended the Lagos State government, the National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Local Organising Committee for ensuring logistical readiness.