Oyedeji Declares for NBBF Presidency, Promises Unity and Reform

Former Nigerian international basketball player and Olympian Olumide Oyedeji has formally declared his intention to contest for the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), promising to unite the basketball family and reposition the sport for sustainable growth.

Oyedeji, who represented Nigeria for almost two decades and played in the NBA as well as professional leagues across six continents, said his decision was driven by a desire to serve rather than personal ambition.

‘This declaration is not driven by personal ambition. It is a call to service, a call to rebuild, reunite, and reposition Nigerian basketball for lasting success,’ Oyedeji said in his declaration.

The former national team captain said his experience as a player, administrator, youth development advocate, club founder, Olympian and international sports leader had prepared him for the responsibility of leading the federation.

Oyedeji, through his Olumide Oyedeji Youth Foundation, has also been involved in basketball camps, educational initiatives and grassroots programmes aimed at developing young Nigerian talent.

He said Nigerian basketball has abundant talent and passionate stakeholders but needs better structures, unity, investment and leadership to fulfil its potential.

Oyedeji pledged to make grassroots development the foundation of his administration by working with state associations to establish functional programmes across the six geopolitical zones and taking basketball to schools, communities, local governments and underserved areas.

He also promised to strengthen domestic leagues, improve athletes’ welfare, establish clearer pathways from grassroots basketball to national teams and professional opportunities, and invest in the development of coaches, referees and other technical officials.

Under his proposed administration, national teams will receive improved preparation, logistics and welfare, while selection will be based on merit, performance, discipline, commitment and national interest.

Oyedeji also pledged to give greater attention to women’s basketball and create more opportunities for girls and women to develop, compete and take leadership roles.

A key part of his vision is the restoration of confidence in the NBBF through transparent governance, audited financial reporting, clear institutional policies and stronger engagement with the private sector.

He also wants to rebuild a structured and commercially viable men’s and women’s domestic league while revitalising collegiate, high school and grassroots competitions across the six geopolitical zones.

Oyedeji said his international relationships would be used to attract partnerships, sponsorships, scholarships, technical exchanges, international camps and infrastructure support through links with organisations including the NBA and FIBA.

He described his vision for Nigerian basketball as a ‘new dawn’ built around four pillars: player welfare and athlete-centred governance; revitalising domestic leagues and grassroots scouting; transparent governance and corporate partnerships; and sustainable infrastructure and global alliances.

Oyedeji appealed to delegates and stakeholders to support his bid, insisting that the election should be about determining the future direction of Nigerian basketball rather than simply choosing an individual.

‘I am not promising that every challenge will disappear overnight. However, I promise honest leadership, hard work, accessibility, fairness, courage, and total dedication to the development of our game,’ he said.

The former Nigerian international said he was ready to unite the basketball family, protect athletes, develop the grassroots and restore Nigeria’s place among the leading basketball nations.

‘I, Olumide Oyedeji OLY, hereby declare my intention to contest for President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation,’ he said.
‘I am ready to serve. I am ready to unite. I am ready to lead.’