President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, has commended the initiative of the South-East representative of the federation, Ugo Udezue, for organizing a regional basketball tournament and facilitating the construction of the Hon. Richard Idike Basketball Court in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Kida described the development as a practical example of how private individuals and stakeholders can contribute to the growth of sports in Nigeria, particularly at the grassroots level.
The three-day South-East Basketball Tournament, scheduled to hold from June 5 to June 7 at the Ebonyi Shopping Mall, will bring together teams from Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, and Abia States, while also serving as the platform for the official commissioning of the newly constructed basketball court.
According to the NBBF President, sustainable sports development cannot be achieved through government efforts alone, stressing that corporate organizations, philanthropists, and private sector stakeholders have a critical role to play in expanding sports infrastructure and creating opportunities for young athletes.
“This is a commendable initiative that aligns perfectly with the vision of the Nigeria Basketball Federation to deepen grassroots basketball development across the country. The construction of a standard basketball facility and the organization of a regional tournament demonstrate what can be achieved when stakeholders take ownership of sports development,” Kida said.
He urged more private and corporate individuals to partner with sports federations and state governments in building facilities and supporting competitions capable of discovering and nurturing young talents.
“Government cannot do it alone. We need more private sector participation and corporate partnerships to unlock the enormous potential that exists among our youths. Initiatives such as this provide platforms for talent discovery, youth engagement, and community development,” he added.
Kida further disclosed that the National Institute for Sports (NIS) will collaborate with the NBBF to ensure that talented players discovered during the South-East tournament are properly identified, trained, and developed.
He explained that the partnership would create a pathway for emerging athletes to receive structured training and mentorship aimed at transforming them into elite performers capable of representing Nigeria on the global stage.
“The NBBF is excited about the opportunities this tournament presents. Through our partnership with the National Institute for Sports, talented players discovered during the competition will be given the opportunity to be trained and nurtured. Our goal is to develop them into future national team players and potential podium champions who will bring glory to Nigeria at international competitions,” Kida stated.
The NBBF President expressed confidence that the tournament would not only strengthen basketball development in the South-East but also serve as a model for other regions seeking to promote sports through strategic partnerships and infrastructure development.
The event is expected to attract coaches, scouts, administrators, and basketball enthusiasts from across the region, while discussions on expanding sports infrastructure and talent development are also expected to feature prominently during the three-day championship.
