NBBF: Stakeholders Demand Adherence To Statutes Amid Leadership Dispute

A fresh controversy has erupted within the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) as seven members of the outgoing board are calling for strict adherence to constitutional procedures to prevent further crisis and foster the growth of basketball in Nigeria. The stakeholders insist that the current board’s tenure officially expired on 31st January 2026, and no extension was approved.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, the dissenting board members demanded the immediate activation of constitutional provisions to convene an elective congress. This congress, they argue, is crucial for ushering in a new and inclusive board.

Among the prominent figures present were International Representative Colonel Sam Ahmadu (Rtd), Professor Florence Adeyanju (NAWIS representative), Olumide Bamiduro (representing NAPHERD SD), North-East Representative Adamu Deshi, Technical Representative Scot Nnaji, South-West Representative Olumide Oyedeji, and Suraj Yusuf (representing the North-West).

Colonel Ahmadu, speaking on behalf of the group, clarified that the briefing aimed to dispel “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 stated.

He emphasised that the NBBF constitution dictates a four-year tenure commencing immediately after members are sworn in following an elective congress.

Given the last election was held on 31st January 2022, in Edo State, the tenure, he argued, concluded on 31st January 2026. Colonel Ahmadu further asserted that no additional inauguration by a supervising authority is constitutionally required to validate the tenure’s commencement.

Beyond the tenure dispute, the stakeholders raised significant governance concerns, including allegations that Congress, the federation’s supreme authority, has not met annually since 2022 as mandated. They also highlighted the alleged absence of an official federation bank account and claims of conflicts of interest concerning a kit sponsorship deal involving the former president.

Furthermore, the group questioned the removal of two board members, Scot Nnaji and Stanley Gumut, under what they described as “questionable circumstances,” and expressed concern over the increasing reliance on the Emergency Committee, which they argue lacks the constitutional power to replace the full Board.

The stakeholders urged relevant authorities to act swiftly to convene a transparent elective congress, warning that failure to adhere to constitutional procedures could further destabilise Nigerian basketball. They believe that strict obedience to the NBBF statutes and the immediate formation of a new board are essential to “wipe the tears of basketball” and restore confidence among all involved.