Stakeholders urge NBBF to follow statutes, form new board
A fresh controversy has erupted within the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) as seven outgoing board members called for strict adherence to constitutional procedures to prevent further crisis and ensure the growth of basketball in Nigeria. The group maintained that the tenure of the current board officially expired on 31st January 2026, with no extensions approved. […]
A fresh controversy has erupted within the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) as seven outgoing board members called for strict adherence to constitutional procedures to prevent further crisis and ensure the growth of basketball in Nigeria. The group maintained that the tenure of the current board officially expired on 31st January 2026, with no extensions approved.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the stakeholders demanded the immediate activation of constitutional provisions to convene an elective congress, describing it as essential for ushering in a new and inclusive board.
The attendees included International Representative Col. Sam Ahmadu (Rtd), Prof. Florence Adeyanju (NAWIS representative), Olumide Bamiduro (NAPHERD SD), North-East Representative Adamu Deshi, Technical Representative Scot Nnaji, South-West Representative Olumide Oyedeji, and Suraj Yusuf (North-West).
Speaking on behalf of the group, Col. Ahmadu said the briefing aimed to address “widespread misinformation” surrounding the federation’s leadership.
“This is not a campaign for anyone but an effort by members of the outgoing board to set the record straight,” he explained.
He stressed that the NBBF constitution provides that a board’s four-year tenure begins immediately after members are sworn in following an elective congress. Since the last election was held on 31st January 2022 in Edo State, the tenure officially ended on 31st January 2026.
Beyond the tenure issue, the stakeholders raised serious governance concerns. They alleged that Congress, the federation’s supreme authority, has not met annually since 2022 as mandated.
Other issues highlighted included the absence of an official federation bank account, potential conflicts of interest involving a kit sponsorship deal, and the questionable removal of two board members, Scot Nnaji and Stanley Gumut. They also criticized the growing reliance on the Emergency Committee, which they claim lacks the constitutional power to replace the full Board.
According to the group, strict obedience to NBBF statutes and the immediate formation of a new board are essential to “wipe the tears of basketball” and restore confidence among players, officials, sponsors, and stakeholders.
They urged relevant authorities to convene a transparent elective congress, warning that failure to adhere to constitutional procedures could further destabilize Nigerian basketball.