Nigerian basketball may be on the verge of long-awaited stability following years of internal crises, legal battles and leadership disputes, according to President of FIBA Africa Zone 3, Colonel Sam Ahmedu (RETD). Ahmedu expressed optimism after a landmark stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja under the supervision of the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade. He said the meeting, which brought together key actors in the sport for the first time in years, marked a turning point for basketball administration in the country. Describing the gathering as a “fresh tip-off,” Ahmedu said the renewed unity among stakeholders has laid a foundation for rebuilding the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) on the basis of dialogue, structure and respect for due process. He stressed that Nigerian basketball must move away from years of conflict driven by power struggles and disregard for the rules, noting that order and legality must now guide the sport’s recovery. At the heart of the reform process is the proposed NBBF Elective Congress, scheduled to hold on or before March 31. Ahmedu said the election will provide a legitimate pathway to restoring normal governance in the federation. “We want to follow the law and do things in an orderly manner. The constitution is for us—we can adjust—but we must not violate it,” he said, urging stakeholders to remain calm and patient as the process unfolds. He added that the rebuilding effort must be inclusive and credible, warning that rushing the process could undermine the gains already made through stakeholder consensus. Ahmedu also highlighted the role of respected basketball figures in the transition, singling out former NBA player and Nigeria national team captain Olumide Oyedeji as a valuable contributor to the sport’s revival, citing his experience and integrity. With the backing of the NSC and the Nigeria Olympic Committee, a clear electoral timeline, and growing unity among stakeholders, Ahmedu said Nigerian basketball now has a realistic pathway toward peace, legitimacy and renewed progress.
Ahmedu Hails New Dawn as Nigerian Basketball Moves Toward Stability
