Pamodzi Boss, Itemuagbor Urges Unity as Firm Takes on NBBF Marketing Challenge

Chief Mike Itemuagbor, Chairman and CEO of Pamodzi Sports Marketing, has called on Nigerian basketball stakeholders to embrace unity and peace as his company begins its role as the official marketer of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).

Speaking after FIBA’s recent letter to the Nigerian basketball community, Itemuagbor said the intervention should serve as a guideline for lasting stability.

‘I find so much peace and corporate guidance in proper governance in the FIBA letter, especially in this transition period for the basketball family in Nigeria. We do pray that everyone embraces that document so that things can get better for the basketball ecosystem in this country,’ he stated.

Pamodzi was recently announced as the Federation’s marketing partner, a responsibility Itemuagbor described as both daunting and rewarding.

‘The NBBF has given us a challenge, and we just have to run with it. Pamodzi says thank you to the NBBF President Musa Kida and the basketball family for entrusting us with one of the biggest challenges in the world. We can only succeed in Nigerian basketball when everyone truly wants to see the game grow here,’ he said.

He emphasized that progress can only be achieved through peace and a shared vision.

‘When good news is all over Nigerian basketball, it becomes very attractive to the corporate world. I plead with everyone to see the bigger picture and support this game. My company is only interested in the game and its growth here. The game is big enough for all if we choose to cooperate with one another,’ Itemuagbor added.

He noted that basketball’s commercial success in the United States could be replicated in Nigeria if stakeholders work together.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has also urged stakeholders to prioritize the sport’s interests ahead of the NBBF elections later this year.

Director General Bukola Olopade stressed collective responsibility: ‘This is a crucial moment for basketball in Nigeria. We must all put the game first. The future of our athletes, our national teams, and our global reputation depends on collective responsibility and adherence to due process.’

In its communication, FIBA confirmed that the tenure of the current NBBF Board will end on 15 October 2026, with elections scheduled between 15 September and 15 October 2026, following the conclusion of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.