By Tony Ezimakor, Abuja
Chairman of National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has urged stakeholders of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to rally behind the newly inaugurated leadership and eschew the bitterness that dogged the sport in the last eight years.
Inaugurating the new executive committee led by Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Mallam Dikko urged stakeholders to prioritize peace and growth of the sport by focusing on harnessing the abundant basketball talent in the country.
“Today is the day to show that we are for basketball. Whatever it is, let’s put the ball tops and see how we can move forward together as one family,” Dikko urged.
While acknowledging that different stakeholders had supported different candidates during the electoral process, he insisted that the outcome should mark the beginning of an era where all concerned must focus on the development of the game of basketball.
Dikko also recognised the contributions of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to the administration and development of the sport in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to sustain their cooperation with the world governing body.
He assured the basketball community of the NSC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that would expand participation, strengthen the domestic leagues and create opportunities for young talents across the country.
Earlier at the International Conference Center, Abuja, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi defeated two other contestants to emerge winner amid the disputes that trailed the process.
Dr Abdullahi, who also is the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, said he would implement reforms to enhance development of the game at the grassroots while aiming for podium performances in the global sports arena.
Meanwhile, outgoing NBBF president Musa Ahmadu Kida expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Dikko, the NSC Director-General and other stakeholders for their contributions during his eight year tenure.
Kida described his time in office as challenging but rewarding, maintaining that he was leaving with a sense of fulfilment after dedicating his time, resources and passion to the development of Nigerian basketball.
“It has been a very tight block, but Alhamdulillah, we are here today,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Kida said he had given his best to the game and remained proud of his contributions to the federation.
“I personally have given the best shot that I could have. I have invested my time, I have invested my resources and passion in order for us to grow this game. I am stepping down full of pride and with a huge sense of fulfilment.
“I want to assure you that no matter who wins the elections, I will give you my unbiased support when you need it, if you need it, and most especially if you ask for it,” Kida added.
Aside the inauguration of NBBF leadership, the NSC Chairman also inaugurated the leadership of other federations including the Nigeria Arm Wrestling Federation, Nigeria Fencing Federation and Nigeria Padel Federation.
