Udezue Pledges Equal Development Across Six Zones As NBBF Vice-President

The newly elected Vice-President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Ugo Udezue, has pledged to promote balanced grassroots and infrastructure development across the country’s six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Udezue, who emerged unopposed at the NBBF Elective Congress in Abuja on Thursday, 15 October 2026, expressed gratitude to delegates and Nigerian basketball supporters for the confidence reposed in him.

He also congratulated the new NBBF President, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, pledging to work with him and other board members to strengthen the country’s basketball ecosystem.

In a statement following his election, Udezue said the new board would build on the foundations laid by previous administrations while pursuing improved facilities, stronger domestic leagues and better management of the national teams.

“I am deeply grateful to the delegates of the Elective Congress for the trust you placed in me today. This victory belongs to every state association, coach, player and fan who believes Nigerian basketball can stand among the very best in the world,” he said.

Udezue, who heads AFA Sports, said he looked forward to working with Abdullahi and other board members to advance the development of basketball in Nigeria.

“I warmly congratulate Dr Mustapha Abdullahi on his election as President. I look forward to working closely with him and the new board to build on the foundations laid by those who served before us,” he added.

The vice-president-elect also stressed the need for an inclusive approach to basketball development, assuring stakeholders that no zone would be neglected in the board’s programmes.

“To the South-East, and to every zone that stood with us: thank you. Our work now is to serve all six zones equally. That means better facilities, stronger leagues, and national teams run with the professionalism our athletes deserve,” he said.

He also extended an olive branch to other candidates who contested positions at the congress, urging them to work with the new leadership towards a common goal.

“To my fellow candidates, I extend my respect and an open hand. Let us move forward together,” he said, adding: “The work begins now.”

Udezue previously served as chairman of the Sponsorship and Marketing Committee under the NBBF board led by Musa Kida.

His emergence as vice-president comes as the new administration begins its tenure, with expectations from stakeholders for improved grassroots development, stronger domestic competitions, better facilities and more effective management of Nigeria’s national basketball teams.