FIBA and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) have officially denied circulating reports suggesting that the global basketball governing body had endorsed the continuation of Musa Kida as president of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) beyond the expiration of his tenure.
The Dispute Over Leadership
The controversy stems from social media claims that FIBA had reaffirmed its recognition of Kida’s leadership despite the end of his second term. Kida’s tenure, which began on January 31, 2022, following his re-election during the NBBF elective congress in Edo State, was due to expire on January 31, 2026. The claims suggesting FIBA’s approval of an extended mandate have sparked confusion.
FIBA’s Clarification
In response to inquiries from Nigerian basketball stakeholders, FIBA clarified that it had not received any formal communication from the NBBF regarding the leadership situation. FIBA also stated that the only relevant correspondence in its possession was a petition from stakeholders requesting that the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the NOC oversee the election of a new NBBF board. This matter is reportedly under review by FIBA’s legal department.
NOC’s Response
NOC President Habu Gumel also weighed in on the issue, confirming that neither the NOC nor FIBA had engaged in any official correspondence concerning the extension of Kida’s leadership. Gumel explained that the only correspondence from the NOC was a 2025 letter to the National Sports Commission, highlighting that Kida’s term was set to expire in January 2026 and calling for fresh elections to be conducted.
Ogunade’s Statement
Babs Ogunade, the outgoing Vice President of the NBBF, also confirmed that he was unaware of any communication from FIBA regarding an extension of Kida’s tenure. Ogunade echoed the statements from FIBA and the NOC, reinforcing that no such endorsement had been made.
Conclusion
The clarification from both FIBA and the NOC effectively debunks the rumors circulating on social media regarding Kida’s extended leadership. As the tenure expiration approaches, the future of the NBBF presidency remains in limbo, with all eyes now on the upcoming election process to determine the next phase of leadership for Nigerian basketball.
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