NVBF Crisis: FIBA Backs Kida’s Board, Sets October 15th For Elective Congress

The world basketball governing body, FIBA, has officially recognised the Musa Kida-led Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) board, establishing a firm deadline of October 15, 2026, for the federation’s upcoming elective congress.

This directive was communicated in a letter dated March 16, 2026, to the NBBF Secretary, detailing FIBA’s stance on the federation’s leadership and electoral schedule.

The current NBBF board is set to remain in office until the October deadline. FIBA further stipulated that elections for the governing body must occur after the conclusion of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup on September 13, 2026, and certainly no later than the aforementioned October date.

Crucially, FIBA also stated it would not acknowledge any amendments to the NBBF statutes until the electoral process has been finalised.

In response, Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, implored all basketball stakeholders to adhere to FIBA’s instructions.

“I want to appeal to all basketball stakeholders to abide by FIBA’s decisions. FIBA has spoken, and that should bring an end to the divisions within the basketball fraternity,” Olopade commented.

FIBA’s letter highlighted its ongoing monitoring of governance issues within the NBBF since 2017, particularly the often contentious election periods. The body referenced past disputes that led to Nigeria’s withdrawal from a significant international competition and resulted in disciplinary action before stability was re-established in October 2022.

This latest directive aims to foster a more structured and inclusive electoral process later this year.