By BABATUNDE OGUNRINDE

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has urged basketball stakeholders to prioritise the interests of the game as the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) prepares for elections later this year.

The commission said this in a statement released on Wednesday by its Media Coordinator, Kola Daniels and made available to newsmen in Lagos.

According to the release, the Federation of International Basketball Association (FIBA) backs the electioneering, under existing statutes and internal regulations.

The Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, also called on all stakeholders within the basketball ecosystem to prioritise unity and the growth of the sport above personal interests.

“This is a crucial moment for basketball in Nigeria. We must all put the game first.

“The future of our athletes, our national teams, and our global reputation depends on collective responsibility and adherence to due process,” Olopade stated.

“FIBA has provided a clear pathway with the new election timeline.

“I urge all stakeholders to embrace dialogue, respect the regulations, and work together to ensure a credible, transparent, and widely accepted electoral process,” Olopade added.

In its communication, FIBA noted that the tenure of the current NBBF Board had been extended until Oct. 15.

It added that elections into a new board must be conducted no earlier than Sept. 15, following the conclusion of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup scheduled for September.

Olopade reiterated the commission’s commitment to supporting a stable and progressive basketball structure in Nigeria.

He also said that this development would ensure that only the best international practices were used to safeguard the nation’s participation in global competitions. (NAN)

Update news