Nigeria’s home-based U18 basketball group is set to assemble in Benin City, Edo State, starting tomorrow through July 3, as part of the second phase of preparations for the FIBA Africa U18 Zone 3 Qualifiers.
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) confirmed that the pre-selection camp will be held at the Indoor Hall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, with Coach Ikima Michael in charge and supported by his assistants.
NBBF Technical Committee Chairman Babs Ogunade said the exercise is a key step on the road to the qualifiers in Burkina Faso, describing it as an essential part of the team-building process ahead of the tournament.
Players have been invited following scouting work carried out across the country, and they will be evaluated on their technical skills, fitness levels, character, and readiness to step into national team responsibilities.
The side that will ultimately compete at the FIBA Africa U18 Zone 3 Qualifiers—scheduled for July 2–15 in Burkina Faso—will be selected from this camp.
NBBF President Ahmadu Musa Kida also used the occasion to underline the federation’s ongoing focus on youth development.
“The future of Nigerian basketball lies in our ability to consistently discover and develop young talents. This U18 camp represents another important step in our long-term vision of building sustainable pathways for our youth athletes,” Kida said.
Musa Adamu, the National Teams General Manager, added that the invited players have earned their opportunity through their performances and potential, with the camp expected to shape the final team that will represent Nigeria in Burkina Faso.
The federation further outlined plans for additional training camps in Nigeria, the United States, and Côte d’Ivoire ahead of the 2026 FIBA U18 AfroBasket Championship Finals.
