The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) will hold its elective congress in Abuja on October 15, 2026, allowing stakeholders to elect a new leadership for the federation. The date follows a transition framework recognised by FIBA, which has fixed the end of the current board's mandate for October 15, with a new administration expected to take office from October 16.
FIBA's position stems from a March 16 communication by Secretary-General Andreas Zagklis, in which the international body recognised the existing board until the October deadline after consultations and petitions concerning the federation's leadership and electoral process. The framework was framed as a defined timeline for the existing leadership rather than an open-ended extension.
The election has already attracted several declared candidates. Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, has built his campaign around grassroots development, talent identification, infrastructure and improved player welfare, and has secured the endorsement of the Northern Youth Union following consultations across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Former D'Tigers player Ejike Ugboaja, picked in the second round of the 2006 NBA Draft, is also pursuing the NBBF presidency. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, he called for a transparent, credible and level-playing electoral process and urged the National Sports Commission to give every eligible stakeholder a fair opportunity to participate. Former D'Tigers coach and Comets Basketball Club president Ayodele Bakare has advocated a broad coalition ahead of the congress.
Beyond the candidates, the contest has opened a wider discussion on Nigerian basketball administration, with stakeholders identifying grassroots development, sustainable competitions, infrastructure, sponsorship and stronger commercial structures as priorities. Former NBA agent Ugo Udezue has called for a greater commercial
