Pius Ayinor
The South-East Basketball Association says it has declared its full support for the candidacy of Dr Mustapha Abdullahi ahead of the October 15, 2026 election to the Board of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).
In a statement made available to the media on Sunday, the association said it carefully considered “the experience and programmes of the various presidential contestants” before deciding to throw its weight behind Dr Abdullahi.
The association said Abdullahi’s vision for grassroots development, improved basketball infrastructure, talent development and the overall growth of the game influenced its decision.
The South-East representative on the NBBF Board and vice-presidential candidate, Ugo Udezue, said Dr Abdullahi has what it takes to take Nigerian basketball to the next level.
Udezue explained that Abdullahi’s plans are geared towards developing basketball from the grassroots, providing the required facilities and creating opportunities for young players to discover and develop their talents.
“For the South-East, this means real investment where it has long been needed: standard courts and facilities across our states, structured youth and school competitions, stronger club and state leagues, and clear pathways for our young players to reach the national teams and professional ranks. The South-East has always produced talent. Under Dr Abdullahi, that talent will be developed here at home, and our clubs and state associations will become true partners in the growth of Nigerian basketball,” Udezue said.
Also speaking, the Head Coach of Coal City Blazers, Chiedozie Nwoye, expressed his support for Abdullahi, saying the clubs in the zone are proud to identify with his candidacy and are ready to work with him towards the development of basketball in the South-East.
The Chairman of the Imo State Basketball Association, Hon. Johnbosco Okeahialam, expressed his support for Dr Abdullahi, saying he is willing to work with him to further develop basketball in Imo State and the South-East.
The South-East Basketball Association said other state basketball association chairmen in the zone have also expressed support for Dr Abdullahi’s candidacy ahead of the election.
The association added that it believes Dr Abdullahi’s emphasis on grassroots basketball, infrastructure and talent development could provide a strong platform for the continued growth of the sport.
“The South-East Basketball Association therefore calls on all basketball stakeholders to consider the programmes and vision presented by the various contestants as the federation prepares for the October 15 election.”
Photo: Mustapha Abdullahi
