Abuja: Abdullahi Mustapha, a candidate for the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), has pledged to prioritise grassroots development, talent discovery, infrastructure, and players’ welfare if elected. Abdullahi, who is the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), made the pledge in an interview with journalists on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Abdullahi’s interest in basketball began during his playing days in Kano State and later developed into supporting the growth of the sport. He emphasized that his relationship with basketball did not begin with public office but from his participation in the game and belief in building the future of Nigerian basketball from the grassroots. Abdullahi highlighted that the development of young talents, access to facilities, regular competitions, and mentorship are key to improving basketball in Nigeria.
Abdullahi expressed concerns about the potential loss of promising players if they are not provided with opportuni
ties to develop their abilities. He stressed the importance of identifying young talents and providing platforms for them to grow, stating that the future of Nigerian basketball depends on the strength of grassroots structures.
He mentioned his contributions to grassroots basketball development, including the construction of a basketball court and sponsorship of a tournament in Kano. Abdullahi also cited the DAM Foundation’s Annual Basketball Championship in Okene, Kogi, as another initiative aimed at promoting the sport at the grassroots level. He noted that the championship has provided opportunities for young players to compete, interact, and gain visibility.
Abdullahi’s vision for basketball extends beyond competitions to include infrastructure, player welfare, mentorship, and empowerment. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the person behind the jersey and ensuring that players’ welfare is not neglected. Properly built and maintained basketball courts, he argued, could serve as community assets
by providing young people with spaces to train, compete, and develop their abilities.
He concluded by stating that his experience in grassroots basketball would contribute to building a system that provides young Nigerians with opportunities to develop their sporting and personal potential. The NBBF election is scheduled to take place on Oct. 15.