Basketball: Abdullahi defeats Oyedeji, Ugboaja to win NBBF presidency

Mustapha Abdullahi has been voted in as President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), ousting former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji and ex-international Ejike Ugboaja. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Abdullahi garnered 48 votes in Thursday's Abuja election, while Oyedeji collected eight votes. Ugboaja did not receive any votes.

This change brings a fresh administration to the federation, with Abdullahi succeeding outgoing President Musa Kida. Another development in the election was Ugo Udezue's unopposed election as NBBF Vice President. With the new leadership set to tackle issues such as domestic competitions, grassroots development, players' welfare, funding, and strengthening basketball structures nationwide, Abdullahi, who is the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, takes on this role at a pivotal moment for the sport.

The success of the national women's basketball team, the D’Tigress, and the growing demand for better structures to support basketball development in Nigeria, make Abdullahi's inauguration all the more significant. The new administration is anticipated to capitalize on these accomplishments, while simultaneously cultivating additional prospects for players and enhancing the competitiveness of domestic basketball.