NTF Identifies Infrastructure, Funding as Major Obstacles to Grassroots Tennis Development
Oru Leonard
The President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Victor Ochei, has identified inadequate infrastructure and insufficient funding as the major challenges slowing grassroots tennis development across Nigeria.
Ochei made the disclosure while addressing journalists at the end of the first week of the 2026 NASCO/ITF J30 World Tennis Tour Junior Championship held at the Tennis Complex of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja from June 1 to 7.
According to him, the shortage of functional tennis courts and training facilities in many states and local government areas has continued to limit opportunities for discovering and nurturing young talents capable of representing Nigeria at international competitions.
He called on state governments and local councils to invest more in tennis infrastructure, stressing that the availability of quality facilities would encourage greater participation among young people and support the growth of the sport nationwide.
Ochei noted that where tennis facilities exist, they are often fully utilized by aspiring players, but access remains a major challenge in many communities lacking such infrastructure.
The NTF President also highlighted funding constraints as a significant barrier to talent development, particularly given the current economic realities facing many Nigerian families.
He explained that while numerous parents are eager to support their children’s sporting ambitions, the financial demands associated with training, equipment, and participation in competitions can be overwhelming.
To address the challenge, he said the federation is actively seeking sponsorships and strategic partnerships aimed at providing financial support for talented young players and easing the burden on their families.
Looking ahead, Ochei revealed that the federation has developed a comprehensive programme of activities for the remainder of the 2026 season.
The schedule includes international engagements such as the Lagos Open M25 Tournament, the Davis Cup World Group II Qualifiers in Morocco, and the Billie Jean King Cup in Botswana.
On the domestic scene, tournaments including the Dala Hard Court Open, CBN Open and VEMP Open are expected to take place, while efforts to expand para-tennis development through dedicated competitions and programmes will also be intensified.
He reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to building a sustainable tennis development structure that caters to juniors, seniors, intermediate players and para-tennis athletes, with the ultimate goal of producing future champions and enhancing Nigeria’s presence in global tennis.
