FIBA orders NBBF to hold elections by October 15 to avoid governance crisis

The global basketball governing body, FIBA, has directed the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to conduct its board elections on or before October 15, 2026.

The directive follows concerns raised by stakeholders and some former board members over the tenure of the current board led by Musa Kida, which they argued expired on January 31 in line with the federation’s constitution. The aggrieved parties had petitioned FIBA, seeking clarity to maintain constitutional order and avoid claims of external interference.

In a letter signed by its Secretary-General, Andreas Zagklis, FIBA confirmed that it received complaints relating to governance issues and the timing of elections within the federation.

The organisation noted that it has closely monitored governance challenges within the NBBF since 2017, especially recurring disputes that usually arise during election periods.

FIBA recalled that past crises led to Nigeria’s withdrawal from the Women’s Basketball World Cup and sanctions imposed on the federation. It added that its intervention helped restore stability, leading to the normalisation of the federation’s operations in October 2022.

According to FIBA, the tenure of the current NBBF board remains valid until October 15, 2026, when fresh elections are expected to be concluded.

It further stated that the elections should take place after the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, scheduled to end on September 13, 2026.

The new board is expected to take over by October 16, 2026, in line with the transition timeline provided.

FIBA emphasised that the elections must be conducted in accordance with the existing NBBF statutes, noting that any amendments will not be recognised until after the process is completed.

It also stressed that the exercise must fully comply with its general statutes and internal regulations to ensure credibility and transparency.

The directive, according to the body, is aimed at preventing a repeat of past crises that affected the growth of basketball in Nigeria.

The development is expected to draw significant attention from stakeholders as the federation moves closer to a crucial election period.