Retired Colonel Samuel Ahmedu, the President of FIBA Africa Zone 3, celebrated his 68th birthday today, drawing tributes from FIBA figures, national federations, former players, and grassroots organisers across Africa.
Quick facts
- Samuel Ahmedu turned 68 years old today.
- He is President of FIBA Africa Zone 3.
- He is a former Nigerian Army officer.
- He oversees basketball development across eight West African nations.
- He is also on the FIBA Africa Executive Committee.
- His work has included increased competitions, coaching clinics, and youth programmes.
- He is credited with helping end a four-year dispute in Liberia over a federation election.
- He is widely credited with initiating the Nestlé Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championship.
Ahmedu, a former officer in the Nigerian Army, leads basketball development across eight West African countries as Zone 3 president, while also serving on the FIBA Africa Executive Committee, the continent’s top governing body for the sport. During his time in the role, the zone has seen a lift in tournament activity, more coaching clinics, and a stronger emphasis on youth development.
Ghana Basketball Federation president Alex Kukula highlighted Ahmedu’s impact on developing young talent, describing Zone 3 as “stronger” thanks to his long-term vision.
Liberian Basketball Association secretary general Calvin Diggs said Ahmedu played a key role in brokering a truce that brought an end to a four-year dispute tied to a Liberian federation election. Diggs added that the agreement opened the door for a new vote and helped restore peace to basketball in the country.
Tributes also came from the basketball community around the Dodan Warriors club. Former players and officials from the team, led by US-based Sunday Akowe, credited Ahmedu with helping many individuals begin their careers in the sport and with building the club’s standing.
Ahmedu is widely recognised for starting the Nestlé Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championship. He remains involved in grassroots coaching and development work, continuing to support the next generation beyond his administrative duties.
FIBA Africa Zone 3 secretary general Joe Apu summed up Ahmedu’s character with a comparison to the game itself, calling him “a Colonel by rank, but a point guard at heart, always looking to give an assist.”
