Nigerian basketball federation gets new president
Abdullahi Mustapha has been elected the new President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) at Thursday’s Elective Congress which took place at Abuja’s International Conference Centre.
The Energy Commission CEO secured the NBBF Presidency with a dominant 40-48 victory over former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji while Ejike Ugboaja and Mark Igoche received no votes during the election after they both stepped down.
Ugo Udezue won the Vice Presidency unopposed, amid smooth vote following withdrawals by two candidates before the election.
In a post shared on his X page (formerly known as Twitter) Abdullahi pledged to unite stakeholders, boost youth programs and align with national sports development under President Bola Tinubu.
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He wrote; “As a young boy growing up in Northern Nigeria, my basketball journey began on grassroots courts, driven by a passion so strong that I once had to borrow money to buy a pair of basketball shoes. Today, I am humbled and honoured to emerge as President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (@nbbfNG). What began as a childhood dream has become a defining moment in my lifelong journey with the game.
“This is more than a personal milestone; it is a call to serve and a commitment to the future of Nigerian basketball. I am determined to work with all stakeholders to elevate the game, inspire a new generation and harness the power of basketball to empower young people, create opportunities and lift them off the streets towards brighter futures.
“The journey that began with passion and hope now enters a new chapter of leadership, service and transformation.” Abdullahi concluded.
The election was however not bereft of controversy as hours after Igoche (Mike) stepped down, another presidential hopeful Ugboaja (Ejike) also withdrew from the NBBF election in Abuja.
Ugboaja slammed the process, saying: “What I see today is not an election.” He also accused organisers of changing key actors to seize control of the basketball federation.
