New NBBF President Mustapha Abdullahi Pledges Reforms and Grassroots Development

Posted : 16 October 2026

Abdullahi, who is also the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, secured 40 votes out of 48 cast to defeat former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji, who received eight votes. Former international Ejike Ugboaja did not receive any votes. He succeeds Musa Ahmadu Kida, who completed eight years as federation president.

The election followed the withdrawal of presidential aspirant Igoche Mark, who raised concerns about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process. Ugo Udezue was also elected vice-president unopposed after emerging as the sole candidate for the position.

In his acceptance speech, Abdullahi promised a new approach to managing the federation. He said Nigerian basketball needed strategic leadership, institutional reforms and measurable results rather than a continuation of existing practices.

His development agenda includes strengthening domestic leagues, improving sports facilities and investing in coaches and referees. He also pledged to protect players’ welfare and expand opportunities for women and young athletes.

Abdullahi said the federation would work towards creating a system where talented Nigerians could progress from grassroots competitions to national representation, regardless of their location or financial circumstances. He also described basketball as a potential source of education, employment, business opportunities and national unity.

On the commercial front, the new president promised to pursue partnerships with private investors, corporate organisations, international basketball institutions and Nigerians in the diaspora. He said sustainable investment would be essential to creating jobs and building a stronger basketball industry.

“Every promise we make must translate into action, and every reform must be measured by its impact on the people and institutions we serve,” Abdullahi said.

National Sports Commission chairman Shehu Dikko also called for unity among stakeholders. Speaking at the congress, he urged those who supported different candidates to put their disagreements aside and work together to advance Nigerian basketball.

Dikko reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting the sport’s development and maintaining cooperation with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). His appeal came amid tensions surrounding the election and concerns about inclusiveness in the electoral process.

Outgoing president Kida thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dikko and other stakeholders for their contributions during his eight-year tenure. He described his time in office as challenging but said he was leaving with a sense of fulfilment after investing his time, resources and passion in Nigerian basketball.

Kida expressed confidence that the incoming board could build on the work of his administration. He also pledged to support his successor as the federation begins a new chapter.

Abdullahi’s immediate challenge will be turning his promises into practical programmes. Progress in grassroots development, domestic competitions, player welfare and financial sustainability will be key measures of his administration’s success.

New NBBF President Mustapha Abdullahi Pledges Reforms and Grassroots Development

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