A fresh dawn has broken for Nigerian tennis as Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei takes over the leadership mantle of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF). His emergence, through a transparent and peaceful election held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, marks a turning point for a sport yearning for revival and structured growth.
Ochei, a man whose name resonates with integrity, philanthropy, and a passion for sports, secured 11 votes to defeat his opponent Ifekuo Omogui Okauru, who polled just one. Mr. Datti was elected unopposed as Vice President, sealing what many described as a “unity election” for Nigerian tennis.
A VISION FOR UNITY AND RENEWAL
In his acceptance remarks, Rt. Hon. Ochei struck a tone of inclusiveness and shared purpose.
“To the glory of God, it was an election where we all campaigned and we all won together,” he said. “It’s a clear demonstration that the Federation is one body. Regardless of the fact that there’s a winner, for me there’s no victor, no vanquished.”
His words reflected a commitment to building bridges and fostering cooperation within the Federation — a move that observers say is crucial to the sport’s development.
Ochei emphasized that beyond the elections, the real task lies ahead: revitalizing the structures, programmes, and opportunities that define tennis across Nigeria.
“What’s important is what we do going forward,” he said. “By God’s grace, we’ll activate the entire tennis ecosystem. Everyone has something to contribute, and our focus is to bring all efforts to the optimal level so that no constituency within the Federation is left behind.”
RESTRUCTURING FOR PERFORMANCE
In his vision for reform, Ochei outlined plans to dismantle outdated structures and repackage the Federation for efficiency and impact.
“We intend to dismantle the existing structure, repackage it, and ensure seamless operation across every organ of the Federation,” he declared. “When we bring in the right influence, sponsorships, and funding, and create career paths for players and coaches, you’ll begin to see the difference. The changes will be visible in the short term — that’s a promise.”
Stakeholders are optimistic that under Ochei’s leadership, the Federation will witness renewed coordination, stronger financial backing, and improved pathways for both professional and grassroots tennis.
THE MAN BEHIND THE RACKET
Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei is no stranger to leadership and service. A former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Barrister, Engineer, and sports philanthropist, Ochei’s track record extends beyond politics into community and youth development.
His passion for sports is well-documented. Through his personal initiatives, he has sponsored numerous national and international competitions, including the renowned Davnotch Tennis Tournament and Wheelchair Basketball Competition. He also constructed a mini football stadium in Onicha Olona, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, as part of his commitment to grassroots sports development.
For Ochei, sports are more than recreation — they are tools for empowerment, social cohesion, and national pride.
EXPECTATIONS AND HOPE
As he begins his tenure, expectations are high. Tennis lovers across the country anticipate a period of revival — one that will see Nigerian players regain competitiveness on the continental and global stages.
Insiders believe Ochei’s leadership style — driven, inclusive, and pragmatic — could help reposition the Federation, attract corporate sponsorship, and lay a sustainable foundation for talent discovery.
Indeed, with his blend of political experience, managerial acumen, and unwavering passion for sports, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei stands poised to deliver a new era for Nigerian tennis — one that will serve both the courts and the country well.
With Victor Ochei at the helm of affairs, Nigerian tennis may finally find its rhythm — not just in competition, but in structure, spirit, and success.
