FIBA backs new NBBF board, clears Sam Ahmedu to serve
- FIBA has recognised Dr Abdullahi Mustapha as NBBF president for the 2026 to 2030 tenure after the October 15 elective congress.
- A letter dated October 19 also confirmed there is no regulatory barrier to retired Col. Sam Ahmedu serving on the board.
- FIBA thanked the outgoing board led by Engr Ahmadu Musa Kida as Nigerian basketball moves to new leadership.
The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has recognised Dr Abdullahi Mustapha as president of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) for the 2026 to 2030 tenure, following the federation's elective congress held on October 15, 2026.
The recognition came in a letter dated October 19, 2026, signed by FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis and addressed to the new president. In it, Zagklis congratulated Mustapha and the newly elected board members and restated FIBA's commitment to good governance and to elections that follow national federations' constitutions and FIBA rules.
FIBA also acknowledged the work of the outgoing NBBF board, which was led by Engr Ahmadu Musa Kida.
Ahmedu cleared to serve
The same letter addressed a question that has followed the new board: whether retired Col. Sam Ahmedu can sit on it. According to PM News, FIBA confirmed there are no impediments under its regulatory framework to Ahmedu serving on the NBBF Board.
FIBA said Ahmedu has been a member of its bodies since 1997, which the letter described as making him the most senior Nigerian in the international basketball governing structure. He is also president of FIBA Africa Zone 3.
Both outlets reported the October 19 letter and the October 15 congress. PM News framed its report around Ahmedu's eligibility and the value of his experience; The Sun focused on FIBA's recognition of Mustapha as president. Neither reported any dispute over the election result itself.
What happens next
The new board now has a four-year term to run Nigerian basketball. The expectations listed in the reports include stronger administration, grassroots development, more competitive domestic leagues and more international participation.
Athletes' welfare, talent discovery and the growth of both the men's and women's game are also on the list. For young players hoping to build a career in the sport, the practical test will be whether those promises turn into better leagues, better facilities and more chances to play abroad.
For now, FIBA's letter settles two things: who it recognises as NBBF president, and that Ahmedu's long international experience is not barred from the boardroom. Whether that experience is used remains a decision for the new board.
