Dr Mustapha Abdullahi has reflected on his journey from a young basketball enthusiast in Northern Nigeria to becoming President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), recalling how he once had to borrow money to buy basketball shoes.

Abdullahi, who emerged as NBBF president at the federation’s elective congress in Abuja on Thursday, October 15, described his election as a defining moment in a journey that began with a childhood passion for the game.

“As a young boy growing up in Northern Nigeria, my basketball journey began on grassroots courts, driven by a passion so strong that I once had to borrow money to buy a pair of basketball shoes,” he said in an emotional message following his emergence.

The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria said becoming president of the federation represented more than a personal achievement, describing the position as a call to serve the sport and help shape its future.

“What began as a childhood dream has become a defining moment in my lifelong journey with the game,” Abdullahi said.

He stressed that his new role would require a commitment to the development of Nigerian basketball, particularly by creating more opportunities for young people and strengthening the structures supporting the sport.

“This is more than a personal milestone; it is a call to serve and a commitment to the future of Nigerian basketball,” he added.

Abdullahi said he intended to work with stakeholders across the basketball community to expand the game’s reach, inspire young players and use sports as a tool for social and economic empowerment.

He also highlighted basketball’s potential to provide positive opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly those who may lack access to resources, facilities and organised development programmes.

“I am determined to work with all stakeholders to elevate the game, inspire a new generation and harness the power of basketball to empower young people, create opportunities and lift them off the streets towards brighter futures,” he said.

Abdullahi polled 48 votes to defeat former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji, who received eight votes, while another presidential aspirant, Ejike Ugboaja, scored no votes. Ugo Udezue emerged as vice-president unopposed.  

His election ushers in a new administration expected to address longstanding concerns around grassroots development, domestic competitions, players’ welfare, infrastructure and sustainable funding for the sport.

Before his emergence, Abdullahi had outlined an agenda focused on developing school basketball, establishing regional talent centres, improving domestic league administration and creating clearer pathways for players to progress from grassroots competitions to national teams.

Through the DAM Foundation, he has also been involved in grassroots basketball initiatives, including competitions, player support and infrastructure development in parts of the country.  

His personal recollection of borrowing money for basketball shoes reflects the financial barriers that can confront young athletes pursuing their sporting ambitions, particularly those without adequate equipment or institutional support.

Abdullahi’s message suggests that his experience as a player remains central to his stated vision for the federation, with an emphasis on widening access and ensuring that young talents are not denied opportunities because of their circumstances.

“The journey that began with passion and hope now enters a new chapter of leadership, service and transformation,” he said.

The new president will now face the task of translating that commitment into practical programmes capable of strengthening basketball development, improving athletes’ welfare and creating more sustainable opportunities across Nigeria.