Ado Salisu
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has welcomed a clarification by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) that retired Colonel Sam Ahmedu faces no regulatory impediment to serving on the newly elected board of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).
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In a letter dated October 19, 2026, addressed to NBBF President, Dr Abdullahi Mustapha, FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis confirmed that Ahmedu had been a member of FIBA bodies since 1997, making him the longest-serving Nigerian within the international basketball governing structure.
The clarification aligns with concerns earlier raised by the NSC over Ahmedu’s absence from the NBBF elective congress held in Abuja.
Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said FIBA’s position supported the concerns he raised during the congress regarding the recognition of Ahmedu’s longstanding contributions to Nigerian basketball.
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Olopade said he had also expressed his reservations to the immediate past NBBF President, Engineer Musa Kida, over the issue.
He stressed that fairness, equity and transparency must guide sports administration, particularly in efforts to promote reconciliation and peace within sports federations.
The NSC Director General expressed optimism that the clarification would strengthen confidence in the new NBBF board and promote stability in the administration and development of basketball in Nigeria.
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He added that the development should enable the federation to focus on improving the structures of the game and creating more opportunities for Nigerian players.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to promoting fairness, accountability and effective governance across sports federations, noting that inclusive leadership and strong institutions are essential for the sustainable development of sports in the country.