The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has congratulated the Nigerian tennis team and the entire tennis community following Nigeria’s historic qualification into the Davis Cup World Group II, describing the feat as a clear reflection of the country’s renewed focus on sports development from the grassroots upward.
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Nigeria secured promotion after a hard-fought victory over Uzbekistan in the World Group II Promotion Playoffs at the iconic Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, 1895, with Daniel Adeleye emerging as the hero of the tie.
Adeleye’s composed straight-sets win sealed an unassailable lead for Nigeria, confirming the country’s return to a higher level of global tennis competition.
Reacting to the achievement, Adeboye praised the players for their discipline, resilience, and belief, noting that such milestones validate the Federal Government’s ongoing investment in sports as a tool for youth empowerment and national pride.
“This is not just a tennis victory; it is a statement,” Adeboye said. “What we witnessed in Lagos is the result of structure, patience, and commitment to development. When young athletes are given the right environment, support, and opportunities, they will always rise to the occasion.”
The SSA also commended the Nigeria Tennis Federation, the National Sports Commission, and all stakeholders involved in organising the tie, describing the successful hosting and outcome as evidence that Nigeria is increasingly capable of delivering excellence both on and off the court.
According to Adeboye, the Davis Cup promotion aligns perfectly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places strong emphasis on grassroots sports, talent discovery, and international competitiveness.
“Our goal is to ensure that sports development does not end with football alone,” he added.
“Tennis, athletics, combat sports, and other disciplines are being repositioned to give Nigerian youths multiple pathways to success. This Davis Cup promotion is a powerful encouragement to young players across the country.”
Adeboye concluded by urging young Nigerians to draw inspiration from the tennis team’s achievement, stressing that dedication, consistency, and belief remain the foundation of sporting excellence.
“As a nation, we will continue to stand by our athletes,” he said.
“Nigeria’s sports future is bright, and moments like this confirm that we are moving in the right direction.”
