Former D'Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji has formally declared his intention to contest the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), pledging to rebuild, reunite and reposition the sport for sustainable growth. The declaration came at a press conference in Lagos, after months of stakeholder engagement across the basketball community. The NBBF election is scheduled for 15 October in Lagos.
Oyedeji said his decision was driven by service rather than personal ambition. "Nigerian basketball is at a defining moment," he told reporters, adding that the country has the talent and human resources to compete successfully given the right structure and leadership.
If elected, he pledged to prioritise revitalising the domestic leagues, improving player welfare, strengthening governance and developing sustainable infrastructure. He also promised timely payment of allowances, comprehensive insurance coverage and professional operational standards for players.
Oyedeji brings more than three decades of experience as a player, club owner, administrator and philanthropist. He served on the FIBA Players Commission from 2014 to 2019 and is president of the Nigeria Olympian Association and third vice president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee. He was also the first African to serve as secretary-general of the World Olympians Association.
