Sports investor Dr Mustapha Abdullahi has declared that his ambition to lead the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) aligns with the Federal Government's drive to reposition sports as an avenue for investment, employment and economic diversification. The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria said his candidacy draws on more than two decades of involvement in basketball.
Abdullahi, also Director of Youth of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, outlined his priorities if elected: "My vision is to help build a professionally managed federation with stronger domestic leagues, better player welfare, sustainable commercial partnerships and clear development pathways for young athletes." He stressed that collaboration with state associations, clubs, coaches and other stakeholders would be central to improving basketball administration.
The candidate tied his bid to President Bola Tinubu's restructuring of sports administration and the renewed focus on the sports economy through the National Sports Commission. He said the restoration of the Commission under Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade had created an opportunity for federations to strengthen operations, improve governance and attract private-sector investment.
Abdullahi's involvement in basketball includes playing in Nigeria's domestic leagues, university competitions and the national youth setup, followed by a stint at Trafford Basketball Club in Manchester. Through the DAM Foundation, he has constructed a court in Kano, organised competitions in Okene and supported an academy serving more than 500 children. He argued that individual grassroots projects could not deliver nationwide development without stronger institutions and clear pathways from grassroots play to professional sport.
