The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has strongly refuted allegations that its board, led by Engr. Musa Kida, is attempting to extend its tenure beyond constitutional limits. The federation also clarified the official commencement date of the current board's term, addressing what it described as "erroneous" reports of a January 2026 expiration.
Comrade Sunday Adebayo, a prominent stakeholder in the Nigerian sports ecosystem, stated that the official tenure of the NBBF board began on 6th October 2022, the date of its inauguration by the then Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Chief Sunday Dare. This followed a period of leadership dispute and subsequent review by the Federal Ministry, which formally recognised the outcome of the Benin City congress.
"The NBBF operates within the Nigerian sports ecosystem, where the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development serves as the supervising authority for all national sports federations," Adebayo explained. "The formal recognition and inauguration by the Ministry confers legitimacy and marks the commencement of official duties."
Adebayo highlighted that between the election in January 2022 and the inauguration in October 2022, the board could not exercise full executive authority due to the unresolved leadership dispute, leading to significant setbacks, including Nigeria's withdrawal from international competitions.
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He further emphasised Engr. Kida's commitment to upholding the federation's constitution, which stipulates a maximum of two four-year terms.
"I wish to state unequivocally that Engineer Kida respects the constitutional provisions governing tenure limits," Adebayo asserted. "There has never been any formal proposal, discussion, or agenda item at any NBBF board meeting or congress regarding tenure elongation or a third term for any officer."
Responding to concerns about legal correspondence sent to journalists, Adebayo clarified that these were in response to publications containing "factually inaccurate and potentially defamatory" statements. He affirmed the NBBF's commitment to press freedom while upholding the right of individuals to seek legal redress for reputational harm.
Adebayo urged stakeholders to focus on the significant achievements under Engr. Kida's leadership, including the D'Tigress's five consecutive FIBA AfroBasket titles and their historic quarter-final appearance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. He also cited D'Tigers' historic victory against Team USA in 2021 and Nigeria's growing international recognition in basketball.
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While acknowledging differing interpretations regarding the tenure commencement date, Adebayo called for unity and assured that elections would be conducted "at the appropriate time in accordance with the constitution and in consultation with the supervisory authorities."
