FIBA directs NBBF to conduct elections Oct. 15

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The world basketball governing body, FIBA, has directed the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to conduct board elections by Oct. 15.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this followed concerns raised by some stakeholders and former board members of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) over the expiration of the tenure of the Musa Kida-led board.

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They argued that its tenure expired on Jan. 31, in line with its constitution, and petitioned FIBA for guidance to safeguard constitutional order and avoid allegations of external interference.

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In a letter signed by Secretary-General Andreas Zagklis, FIBA said it received petitions from stakeholders on governance issues and election timelines within the federation.

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FIBA noted it had monitored governance challenges in NBBF since 2017, especially recurring disputes that often intensify during election periods.

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The organisation recalled that past crises led to Nigeria’s withdrawal from the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup and sanctions imposed on the federation.

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The body said it intervened to restore stability, culminating in the normalisation of the federation’s situation in October 2022.

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FIBA stated that the current NBBF board’s tenure remains valid until Oct. 15, 2026, when new elections must be concluded.

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It added that elections should be held after the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, scheduled to end on Sept. 13, 2026.

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The new board is expected to assume office no later than Oct. 16, 2026, in line with the outlined transition timeline.

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FIBA stressed elections must be conducted under existing NBBF statutes, noting amendments will not be recognised before the process is completed.

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It added that the process must comply fully with its general statutes and internal regulations to ensure transparency and credibility.

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FIBA said the directive aims to prevent a recurrence of past crises that disrupted basketball development in Nigeria.

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The development is expected to attract attention from stakeholders as the federation prepares for a crucial election cycle.

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(NAN)

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