The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has congratulated Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha on his election as president of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and confirmed that veteran basketball administrator Sam Ahmedu faces no regulatory impediment to serving on the federation’s board.
In a letter dated Oct. 19 and addressed to Mustapha, FIBA acknowledged the outcome of the NBBF elective congress held on Oct. 15 and congratulated the newly elected board members for the 2026 to 2030 term.
The international governing body commended the federation’s commitment to good governance and compliance with its constitution and applicable FIBA regulations. It also acknowledged the support provided by Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders during the electoral process.
On Ahmedu’s eligibility, FIBA confirmed that there were no regulatory barriers to his service on the NBBF board. The letter identified him as the most senior Nigerian serving on FIBA bodies, noting that he had been involved in the international basketball governing structure since 1997.
The clarification followed a request from the NBBF seeking guidance on Ahmedu’s status. He currently serves as president of FIBA Africa Zone 3 and is a member of the FIBA Africa Executive Committee.
Mustapha won the NBBF presidential election with 40 votes, defeating former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji, who received eight votes. Former candidate Ejike Ugboaja received no votes, while Igoche Mark withdrew from the contest.
The election marked the beginning of a new four-year administration following the tenure of outgoing president Ahmadu Musa Kida, who did not seek a third term after eight years in office.
FIBA also expressed appreciation to Kida and the outgoing board for their contributions to Nigerian basketball. Kida is a member of the FIBA Finance Commission.
The international body’s letter provides formal recognition of the election outcome and clarifies Ahmedu’s eligibility under FIBA regulations as the new board begins its tenure.
The new administration faces the task of strengthening domestic competitions, improving player welfare, expanding grassroots development and supporting Nigeria’s national teams. Translating the election commitments into measurable improvements will be a key test of the federation’s leadership over the next four years.
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