Tennis in Nigeria has come a long way since its introduction in the early 20th century. Once regarded as an elite colonial pastime, it has evolved into a professional sport that drives national pride, youth empowerment, and economic opportunity. From the days when the game was confined to expatriate clubs in Lagos and Enugu, Nigerian tennis has expanded into all six geopolitical zones, producing ATP and WTA-ranked players, hosting ITF tournaments, and nurturing a vibrant new generation of talent.
Key milestones in this evolution include the establishment of the Nigeria Lawn Tennis Association (NLTA) in 1959, its rebranding as the Nigeria Lawn Tennis Federation (NLTF) in 1999, and its eventual integration into global circuits by the 2010s. Today, the Federation’s long-term vision looks ahead to 2030 — targeting Top-50 African rankings, Olympic medals, and over 500 modern courts nationwide.
Yet, challenges remain. Inadequate infrastructure, limited funding, and uneven talent pipelines continue to slow progress. Mr. Victor Hembah, a respected stakeholder, player, and entrepreneur from Benue State, believes that overcoming these hurdles requires innovation, transparency, and strategic investment.
Presenting his vision for the future, Hembah said his goal as NLTF President would be to build a federation that is agile, transparent, and player-centric. According to him, “We will establish world-class training academies in all six geopolitical zones, secure sustainable sponsorships from the private sector, and leverage technology for scouting and virtual coaching to unearth the next generation of stars like Christopher Bulus and Barakat Oyinlomo Quadre.”
Over the years, Hembah has demonstrated his commitment to Nigerian tennis through his consistent support and private sector experience, which have added immense value to the sport. His profile as a sportsman, investor, and homegrown tennis player positions him as a strong contender from the North Central region — and potentially the first President from that zone.
Despite ongoing challenges such as climate effects on clay courts, Hembah’s plan emphasizes sustainability through green energy-powered facilities and strategic youth investment.
The story of tennis in Nigeria is ultimately one of resilience and reinvention — from niche recreation to a $10 million industry contributing to the nation’s sports economy. With visionary leadership and sustained grassroots development, the next decade could mark Nigeria’s emergence as a continental powerhouse in tennis, inspiring Africa’s next generation of champions.
