Manny Ita
Nigeria is set to host Uzbekistan in the World Group II play-offs of the 2026 Davis Cup on February 7–8 at the historic Lagos Lawn Tennis Club in Onikan. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) confirmed Nigeria’s hosting rights following the national team’s successful promotion from the African Group III tournament in Zimbabwe. Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) President, Victor Ochei, described the upcoming event as a major milestone, stating, “This hosting opportunity reflects Nigeria’s steady rise in international tennis following consistent performances in recent years.” He added that the choice of venue demonstrates the ITF’s confidence in the country’s organizational capacity and infrastructure.
The Nigerian squad, led by non-playing captain Benson Ishicheli, consists of Daniel Adeleye, Christopher Bulus, Michael Emmanuel, Alafia Ayeni, and Canice Abua. The team began intensive training at the National Stadium in Surulere on January 21 and is scheduled to move to the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club on February 1 for final preparations. A notable addition to the roster is Alafia Ayeni, a Nigerian-American player with experience in all four junior Grand Slams. Coach Ishicheli expressed optimism regarding the team’s readiness, noting that the players are highly motivated by the home support and the prompt settlement of their camp allowances.
Uzbekistan enters the tie as the top seed, ranked 49th globally, compared to Nigeria’s ranking of 74th. The Uzbek team will be led by Khumoyun Sultanov, a former Australian Open participant with a career-high ranking of 216. The play-off will consist of five rubbers played over two days, including four singles matches and one doubles match. Victory for Nigeria would secure a place in World Group II, a feat the country has not achieved in decades. Dr. Adeyinka Adewusi, President of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895, assured the public of the venue’s readiness, saying, “Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895 is very ready to host this Davis Cup World Group II play-off.”
