The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare on Thursday inaugurated the Musa Kida-led Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) board at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Dare described the inauguration as significant for the growth of basketball in Nigeria and a forward leap in the mandate of the Ministry in superintending and supporting federations for the development of Sports, challenging the new board to embrace reconciliation and a review of its constitution to ensure inclusiveness.
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“For the records, this is the only board recognised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and by extension, the Federal Government of Nigeria.
“Let that message go out clearly. To the President, the Vice-President and other members of the new board of the NBBF, the task of developing basketball is now under your watch, it now lies squarely on your shoulders.
“Our job at the Ministry is done. We expect you to deliver for our country, for our athletes and for basketball development.
“We believe that teamwork, understanding and cooperation are prerequisites for achieving the board’s goals and objectives.
“The Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports, having noted the situation around the basketball Federation has approved the elective Congress of January 21st, 2022 and its outcome, and that is why we are here today,” the Minister affirmed.
Responding on behalf of the NBBF board, its President, Kida, expressed gratitude to the Minister for resolving the crisis that plagued the federation for over five years by recognising the outcome of the elective congress.
He revealed that to put the past aside and work together with all stakeholders, a reconciliation committee has been put in place to unite the federation for the task of repositioning basketball in the country, while the process for the review of its statutes and constitution has begun.
Kida assured the Minister that NBBF under his watch will develop basketball from the grassroots and restore the nation’s glory in international competitions.
The NBBF has been in crisis for over five years as two parallel boards are laying claim to the leadership of the federation.
Mr Igoche Mark, who is the factional NBBF President has not responded to the latest development yet.
The members of the inaugurated board of the NBBF are Ahmadu Musa Kida (President), Babatunde Ogunade (Vice President), Abba Kaka, Professor Yakassai, Professor Adeyanju, Adamu Deshi, Ugo Udezue, Okoro Victor, Olumide Oyedeji, Suraju Yusuf, Felix Awogu, Colonel Sam Ahmedu (retired) while Njoku Peter is the Secretary-General.
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