World basketball governing body, FIBA, has directed that elections into a new board of the Nigeria Basketball Federation must be conducted on or before October 15, 2026.
The decision was communicated in an official letter signed by FIBA Secretary General, Andreas Zaglis, and addressed to NBBF President, Ahmadu Musa Kida.
FIBA confirmed that it received multiple petitions from stakeholders concerning governance issues within the federation, particularly around the timing and conduct of its elections. The global body noted that it has been closely monitoring the NBBF’s internal challenges since 2017, especially as they tend to intensify during election periods.
Referencing past disruptions, FIBA recalled that governance disputes four years ago led to Nigeria’s withdrawal from the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup and resulted in disciplinary sanctions against the federation. Stability was only restored following FIBA’s intervention in October 2022.
After reviewing the situation and relevant documentation, FIBA outlined key directives to guide the electoral process. The current NBBF board has been recognised to remain in office until October 15, 2026.
Furthermore, elections into the federation’s governing bodies must be held after the conclusion of the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, scheduled to end on September 13, with the newly elected board expected to assume office no later than October 16, 2026.
FIBA also ruled out any amendments to the NBBF statutes before the elections, insisting that the process must be conducted under the existing framework and in full compliance with its general statutes and internal regulations.
The directive is aimed at ensuring a smooth and credible transition process while maintaining stability in Nigerian basketball governance.
