Royal Father Urges Unity In Nigerian Basketball

A prominent Nigerian monarch, the Andoma of Doma, Dr. Ahmadu Aliyu Oga Onawo (OON), has convened a crucial meeting of basketball stakeholders, calling for an end to divisions and a renewed focus on the sport’s future.

The gathering, held at the royal palace in Doma, Nasarawa State, over the weekend, saw key figures in Nigerian basketball, both in person and online, discuss strategies to protect and advance the sport.

The Andoma of Doma implored stakeholders to set aside their differences for the betterment of Nigerian basketball. He stated, “The institution has not been safeguarded; this we must do, we must agree to do better. Each of us should jealously safeguard the NBBF. We must seek investments that will make the sport great. Our divergent views must not be our undoing; we must apply wisdom, and with this, the prosperity we are demanding will come.”

He further stressed that any future president of the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) must be inclusive and urged stakeholders to hold a follow-up meeting within a month to secure lasting peace within the sport.

Mr. Igoche Mark, a prominent basketball promoter and initiator of the Mark D Ball Basketball Championship, lauded the royal father’s initiative, advocating for more such dialogues. He emphasised the importance of stakeholders moving past previous grievances and extending forgiveness.

“I really appreciate you, our royal father, for taking time out to call us for a peace meeting, despite your busy schedule. We are one big family united by basketball, and for this initiative of yours, the only way we can move forward is if we come together. I want to urge all of us that, for all of us to move forward, we must forget the past; let’s forgive each other’s shortcomings,” Mark commented.

Olumide Oyedeji, the South West Representative on the NBBF Board, echoed Mark’s sentiments, urging greater responsibility among stakeholders and cautioning against character assassination and negative campaigns.

Notable attendees included Adamu Deshi, Osita Nwachukwu, Ejike Ugboaja, Frank Jituboh, and Kingsley Aigbonoga. Also joining virtually were Col. Samuel Ahmedu (rtd) and Isah Umar, chairmen of the Plateau State and Nasarawa State Basketball Associations, respectively.