I’m coming to build, Oyedeji declares NBBF presidential bid

Former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji has formally declared his intention to contest the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation,

Former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji has formally declared his intention to contest the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, promising to rebuild, reunite and reposition Nigerian basketball.

Oyedeji made the announcement at a press conference in Lagos on Monday, after months of engagements with stakeholders in the basketball community. He said his decision was driven by a commitment to serve rather than personal ambition.

“I am not coming to take from basketball; I am coming to build a legacy that will outlive us all,” he said.

The former NBA player has more than 30 years of experience in the game as a player, club owner, administrator and philanthropist. He was a member of the FIBA Players Commission from 2014 to 2019 and was elected South West representative on the NBBF board in 2022. He is the incumbent president of the Nigeria Olympians Association, third vice president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and the first African to serve as Secretary General of the World Olympians Association.

Oyedeji said Nigerian basketball is at a defining moment and has the talent and human resources to thrive with the right structure and leadership. If elected, he said, his administration would build a sustainable system that delivers lasting value to players, coaches, officials, stakeholders and corporate partners.

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His plans centre on revitalising the domestic leagues, improving player welfare, strengthening governance and developing sustainable infrastructure. He also pledged to rebuild corporate confidence through accountability and to use global partnerships to attract investment.

Player welfare is a key part of the pitch. “Every decision made by the NBBF will prioritise the health, financial well-being and professional career pathways of our players on the domestic scene and our various national teams,” Oyedeji said.

“We will establish professional operational standards for players, ensure timely payment of allowances and provide comprehensive insurance coverage.”

He said he would bring his international experience, commitment to good governance and passion for youth development to the running of the federation. His ultimate aim, he said, goes beyond winning an election: to leave the sport stronger and better placed for future generations.