Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Kogi chapter has congratulated Mustapha Abdullahi on his emergence as President of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).
The association stated this in a statement signed by its Acting Chairman, Olatunde Odimayo, on Friday in Lokoja, Kogi.
Abdullahi who is the Director-General of Energy Commission of Nigeria, emerged President at the elective congress held on Thursday in Abuja alongside Ugo Udezue, elected Vice-President.
He said his emergence presents opportunity to advance basketball development in Nigeria.
Odimayo expressed confidence in his capacity to provide purposeful leadership and reposition basketball for greater achievement
He said his leadership would strengthen administration, expand grassroots participation and create opportunities for talents.
The chairman said Abdullahi’s experience and commitment to sports development would be a valuable assets.
“On behalf of the entire Kogi SWAN family, we give thanks to Almighty God for the emergence of one of our own, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, as President of the NBBF, he added.
Odimayo added that “his wealth of experience in the sports industry speaks volumes, and we are optimistic that his emergence will take the game to greater heights.
“We are confident that his leadership will open a new chapter of growth, progress and renewed opportunities for Nigerian basketball,” he said.
He commended Abdullahi’s courage, resilience, determination and perseverance throughout the electioneering process.
The chairman urged the new leadership to prioritise grassroots development, infrastructure investment and improved welfare for stakeholders.
“Basketball has enormous potential to engage our young people, discover exceptional talents and project Nigeria positively on the international stage, he said.
“We believe the new administration has an opportunity to build a sustainable system that will benefit players and stakeholders across the country,” he added.
He pledged support for the new president and called for collaboration among stakeholders.
“We in Kogi SWAN are solidly behind you as you take on this responsibility.
“We encourage you to remain focused on the task ahead and work towards taking Nigerian basketball to an enviable height. Once again, congratulations,” he added.
He urged the new executive to pursue policies that would promote accountability, inclusiveness and sustainable development of basketball.
