Nigeria Basketball Federation President Musa Kida has urged all interested parties to participate in the upcoming elective congress, scheduled for October 15, 2026, in Abuja. Kida emphasized the importance of an open and orderly electoral process, stating that everyone qualified and interested in serving the federation should be allowed to contest. This call comes as the NBBF Congress has unanimously approved the date for the elective congress, which will see the emergence of a new board.
The October 15 election will be preceded by a series of constituency elections in Abuja, where representatives of technical officials, players, and other recognized affiliate bodies are expected to emerge between October 7 and 14. This will complete the electoral college ahead of the main congress. Kida also called on aspirants and their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly throughout the process, ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition.
The upcoming election has already garnered significant interest, with former D'Tigers international Ejike Ugboaja declaring his intention to contest for the presidency. Ugboaja has promised longer domestic leagues, stronger grassroots development, and broader stakeholder participation. Additionally, basketball investor and federation presidential aspirant Mark Igoche has expressed his desire to lead the NBBF, citing his years of investment in the domestic game as evidence of his commitment.
Kida's appeal for a free and fair contest comes against the backdrop of a turbulent period in Nigerian basketball. The outgoing leadership has navigated administrative disputes that previously produced rival factions and threatened the stability of the sport. With another election approaching, attention will extend beyond who eventually wins, as the manner in which the process is conducted could be equally important.
The NBBF President's message to aspirants is straightforward: present your case, participate freely, and allow the ballot to determine who leads Nigerian basketball into its next chapter. Kida's emphasis on decorum and responsibility is crucial, as different interests compete for positions within the federation. This approach aims to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
The elective congress is expected to be a significant event in Nigerian basketball, with the potential to shape the sport's future. As the election approaches, stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure that the process is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. Kida's call for an open and orderly electoral process has set the tone for a peaceful transition.
With the stage set for the elective congress, Nigerian basketball is poised for a new chapter. The emergence of a new board will be critical in determining the sport's future trajectory. As aspirants and their supporters prepare for the election, Kida's emphasis on responsibility and decorum will be crucial in ensuring a successful and peaceful transition.
Key points
- Musa Kida calls for an open and orderly electoral process ahead of the October 15 elective congress.
- The election has attracted significant interest, with Ejike Ugboaja and Mark Igoche declaring their intentions to contest for the presidency.
- Kida emphasizes the importance of decorum and responsibility among aspirants and their supporters throughout the electoral process.
