Mustapha Abdullahi Elected NBBF President With 40 Votes
Dr Mustapha Abdullahi has been elected President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), defeating former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji and ex-international Ejike Ugboaja in Thursday’s election in Abuja.
Abdullahi secured 40 of the 48 votes cast, while Oyedeji polled eight votes. Ugboaja failed to secure any votes.
The election followed the withdrawal of former presidential aspirant Igoche Mark, who pulled out of the race on Wednesday over concerns about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process.
Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, succeeds outgoing NBBF president Musa Kida, ushering in a new administration at the federation.
Meanwhile, Ugo Udezue emerged as vice-president unopposed, having been the sole candidate for the position.
The new leadership faces key challenges, including strengthening domestic competitions, developing grassroots basketball, improving players’ welfare, securing funding and enhancing the administration of the game.
Abdullahi also takes charge at a time when Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, continues to record notable international success, raising expectations for stronger structures to sustain the sport’s growth nationwide.
His administration will be expected to build on the women’s team’s achievements while expanding opportunities for players and improving the domestic basketball system.
