By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Ahmadu Kida, has called for greater private sector investment in sports development, stressing that sustainable growth in Nigerian basketball can only be achieved through strategic partnerships between government, corporate organizations, and sports stakeholders.
Kida made the appeal while commending the South-East representative of the federation, Ugo Udezue, for spearheading the construction of the Hon. Richard Idike Basketball Court in Abakaliki and organizing the maiden South-East Basketball Tournament scheduled to hold from June 5 to 7 in Ebonyi State.
The NBBF President described the initiative as a shining example of how private individuals can contribute meaningfully to sports infrastructure development and grassroots talent discovery across the country.
According to him, government efforts alone are insufficient to meet the growing demands of sports development, making private sector participation essential for expanding facilities, creating opportunities for young athletes, and sustaining competitive programmes.
“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 corporate organizations, philanthropists, and sports enthusiasts to emulate the initiative by investing in infrastructure and competitions capable of identifying and nurturing future stars.
“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 also revealed that the National Institute for Sports will partner with the NBBF to identify and develop outstanding talents discovered during the tournament, creating a structured pathway for emerging players to progress into elite basketball.
“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,” he stated.
The three-day championship, which will feature teams from Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, and Abia states, will also serve as the official commissioning of the newly constructed basketball court. The event is expected to attract coaches, scouts, administrators, and basketball enthusiasts from across the region.
Kida expressed confidence that the initiative would not only strengthen basketball development in the South-East but also provide a blueprint for other regions to drive sports growth through private-sector collaboration, infrastructure investment, and grassroots talent development.
